NFL Kickoff Preview: Titans at Steelers

The 2009 NFL Kickoff game features an interesting match-up: the Super Bowl Champion Steelers take on the Tennessee Titans, the last team to beat Pittsburgh. The Titans will look to improve on last years AFC Divisional Round loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Their solid, fully returning offensive line will certainly help, as QB Kerry Collins isn't getting any younger. But their defense, one of the leagues best last year, has me concerned. The loss of 350 lb tackle Albert Haynesworth leaves a big hole up the middle. DEs Kyle Vanden Bosch, who only played 10 games last year, and Jevon Kearse, who played a full 16 last season for the first time since 2001, are on the wrong side of 30. Pittsburgh has never been a team to shy away from the run, and with Willie Parker and Rashard Mendenhall healthy, they'll test Tennessee's linemen often. Pittsburgh also has an aging defense, but one that has many years experience playing with Pittsburgh exclusively, and is mostly young at their most improtant position, LB. Its the experience that will keep Collins from making big plays, and Lendale White from breaking big gains.

Pick: Steelers 21-Titans 13