NFL Week 16: Colts vs. Steelers odds, preview, and pick
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) with the ball during a game between the Indianapolis Colts and Jacksonville Jaguars. Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire)
December 23rd, 2020
The Pittsburgh Steelers (11-3) return to Heinz Field on Sunday afternoon (1:00 p.m. ET, CBS) looking to stop a three-game losing streak. But they’ll host arguably their toughest opponent of the season in the red-hot Indianapolis Colts (10-4).
Another #VictoryMonday?
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) December 21, 2020
That's a big 10-4. pic.twitter.com/TUI8T7HYsr
Bettors are jumping all over Philip Rivers and company, turning the Steelers from favorites to underdogs in this one. Is the money right, or will taking a contrary stance pay off? Here’s our wagering preview.
Steelers’ offense is stunted
Pittsburgh is running out of excuses for its poor play. Ben Roethlisberger and company have averaged a paltry 264.7 yards of offense during their three-game losing streak.
#Steelers now 6 straight drives of this game without a first down!
— Lawrence Owen (@Colts_Law) December 22, 2020
3rd and 1. pic.twitter.com/oD5Qe4i2FM
The source of consternation for the Steelers seems to be their offensive line. They aren’t generating any holes for their running backs, and Roethlisberger has made a habit of tossing quick passes in an apparent attempt to avoid standing in the pocket and taking hits.
Indy’s pass rushers – who have tallied 10 sacks over their last three games – should be licking their chops ahead of this one.
Colts and Steelers statistics and rankings
| Team Name | Passing Yards | Rushing Yards | Passing Yards Allowed | Rushing Yards Allowed |
|---|
Indianapolis Colts | 260.8, 9th | 114.0, 15th | 236.0, 17th | 98.1, 5th |
Pittsburgh Steleers | 240.1, 17th | 88.9, 31st | 193.3, 2nd | 104.6, 8th |
Colts’ scorers are surging
Since being held to 10 points by the Baltimore Ravens in Week 9, the Colts have averaged 31.8 points per game (six games).
Quarterback Philip Rivers has been on a tear in this span, completing 69.7 percent of his throws for 7.9 yards per attempt. He’s tossed 12 touchdowns compared to only two interceptions during this hot streak.
Jonathan Taylor should help Colts control this tilt
Perhaps the most pleasant surprise for the Colts this season has been the emergence of rookie running back Jonathan Taylor.
Since missing Week 12, Taylor has averaged 108 rushing yards per game (6.6 yards per attempt) and scored three touchdowns. The Wisconsin product has added nine receptions for 71 yards and a touchdown in that span.
Jonathan Taylor is free 😁 pic.twitter.com/oVNH8hUyR2
— PFF Fantasy Football (@PFF_Fantasy) December 20, 2020
The Steelers’ defense is flagging without linebackers Bud Dupree and Devin Bush, as they allowed the Cincinnati Bengals to rush for 152 yards on Monday night. Expect Taylor to attack this beleaguered Steelers unit throughout.
Trends say side with Indy
The Colts have helped bettors cash in five straight games as road favorites. Indy is also 15-6 against the spread in its last 21 games against teams with winning records.
Pittsburgh has failed to cover in seven straight December games. The Steelers are also 2-5 ATS in their last seven games following a spread loss.
Score prediction: Colts 24, Steelers 17
NFL Pick: Colts -2
Wager on all NFL Week 16 action on BetAmerica!
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