Possible absence of Smith big problem for Steelers

By Neal Coolong  |   Sunday, October 26, 2008  |  Comments( 2 )

Pittsburgh Steelers
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The Pittsburgh Steelers have seen what happens to their run defense without defensive end Aaron Smith.

The team swooned over the second half of last season when their most underrated player was out with a biceps tear. They may be without Smith again in their Week 8 matchup with the Super Bowl champion New York Giants. Smith missed practice all week attending to a personal issue.

Commentary: The Steelers aren't facing the pop-gun rushing offense of the Cincinnati Bengals. The champs average an NFL-best 169 yards a game, led by their three-headed monster of Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward and Ahmad Bradshaw. The Steelers are the league's second-ranked run defense, but Nick Eason and Travis Kirschke are not at the level of Smith.

It could be a long game for the Steelers in Pittsburgh.

The Giants don't mess around. They attack straight ahead behind an outstanding offensive line, and should have all the confidence possible in going against the Steelers in a battle of 5-1 teams. Smith's absence creates an opportunity for the Giants to run right, run right and run right some more in Week 8. If Smith doesn't play (he's listed as questionable, and the fact he hasn't practiced strongly indicates his time, at best, will be limited), the Giants can attack Kirschke and Eason all game.

Fan Pulse: Steelers fans posting on Pittsburgh Live are speculating as to the reason Smith has been absent.

Fantasy Football Impact: The Giants run the ball well, and despite going against a tough ground defense on the road, look for Big Blue to play a physical, ball-control game. That means a lot of Jacobs.

Injury Watch: While Smith isn't hurt, he'll likely miss Sunday's game. Also out for the Steelers are left tackle Marvel Smith (back spasms), RB Willie Parker (knee), special teams gunner Keyaron Fox (hamstring) and wide receiver Santonio Holmes (non-injury-related).
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About Neal Coolong

Neal Coolong is a freelance sports writer with contributions to Scout.com, AOL and Steelers Live. He lives with his fiance in St. Paul, Minn., and saves every dime (that she knows about) for their wedding next June. He's already made the prediction that the Steelers 2007 draft class will be one...
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