New Orleans on Halloween night is not only going to be loud, it's going to be hostile. While Steelers fans often overrun many visiting stadiums, I don't expect that to happen this week.
Saints fans aren't likely to sell tickets for a game pitting the last two Super Bowl champions in one of the biggest night games of the season.
The fact that Brett Keisel and Aaron Smith are both likely out of action also bothers me.
Though we know the Saints won't run the ball a ton, Ziggy Hood and Nick Eason are going to get a workout rushing the passer - with little in the terms of backups behind them.
Also, Smith and Keisel are the two tallest defensive linemen on the roster. Keisel, in particular, has very long arms and is good at batting down passes, something that comes into play against 6-0 Drew Brees.
The other thing that gives me caution is the defending Super Bowl champion factor.
Yes, I know the Saints have struggled, but so did the Steelers in both of their seasons after winning the Super Bowl.
If you remember those seasons, the Steelers invariably lost to lesser teams but somehow got inspired to beat the good ones.
And make no doubt about it, the Steelers will have the full attention of the Saints.
Pittsburgh could certainly win this game and I wouldn't be surprised if the Steelers did.
But they aren't going to go 8-0 on the road this season and I like them to win their remaining road games - yes, even at Baltimore Dec. 5.
Take New Orleans, 28-27
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