It’s not exactly a can’t-miss event, but Monday night, the Pittsburgh Steelers (3-7) visit Lucas Oil Stadium to oppose the 4-6-1 Indianapolis Colts. With both sides needing the game, at least there’s some incentive, The sides are good defensively, but struggle mightily with the ball. It’s the Colts, as 2½-point favorites (total of 39) according to BetUS sportsbook NFL odds.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Indianapolis Odds by BetUs
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steelers | +2½ ( -110 ) | 39 ( -110 ) | +120 |  |
| Colts | -2½ ( -110 ) | 39 ( -110 ) | -140 | |
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Steelers Lost Despite Scoring
The Pittsburgh Steelers have, without question, one of the worst offenses in the NFL. So, they went out and scored 30 points last Sunday, and lost, anyway. The team’s 37-30 defeat to the visiting Cincinnati Bengals was the third loss in their last four. However, if the usually-moribund offense can build off that performance, perhaps they can find a way against Indianapolis.
Pittsburgh did get reigning Defensive Player of the Year TJ Watt back last week. Watt immediately showed his value, harassing Cincinnati quarterback while adding a blink-or-you’ll-miss-it interception. Force turnovers and providing a short field is never bad, especially with a pathetic offense.
Pittsburgh’s bottom 10 in passing yards per game, rushing yards per game, points per game (17) and points allowed per game, Watt will likely change the defensive numbers, but quarterback Kenny Pickett had made rookie mistakes (three touchdowns, eight interceptions) along the way.
Colts Flipping Series Script?
This has been a one-sided rivalry in recent decades. Indianapolis hasn’t defeated Pittsburgh in 14 years, 0-7 since 2008. In a series dating to 1950, Pittsburgh has a 26-6 advantage. Suggesting the Colts are overdue is a bit of an understatement.
The Colts are coming off of a late-game, 17-16 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. It was a game they had won, leading until the final 80 seconds.
Indy doesn’t have a great offense, either, the second-worst points per-game average (15.7) the NFL. The Colts have worked around injuries to star running back Johnathan Taylor, while quarterback Matt Ryan, reinserted after a coaching change, has not matched his Atlanta resume (1p touchdowns nine interceptions. 29 sacks). Former Colt standout Jeff Saturday was a winner at Las Vegas in debut, but the jury is still out on whether the surprise hire is an improvement over Frank Reich as coach.
If you’re into predicting the balance of each team’s season, Pittsburgh’s final win total is projected at 5½, while the Colts are at 6½. Those per NFL win odds.
Steelers in Nail-Biter
Acton will likely be under as far as the total is concerned, as two of the worst offenses in the NFL are on display. However, as the Steelers find some rhythm with Watt on the defense, and the Colts consistently playing close games, expect this game to barely hit the over, since 39 is a very low total.
Pittsburgh isn’t great by any means, but is taken to win a nail-biter. Defense is better, but will have to contain Jonathan Taylor in the backfield. Take Pittsburgh +2½ in this game.
