Between the Lines

Three reasons to like the STEELERS (+2½) OVER THE PACKERS

• Steelers can play smash-mouth or up-tempo game to counter any way the Packers defend them.

• Aaron Rodgers has been hot, but the real heat will be the Steelers' pass rush.

• Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger can buy time and his receivers will get open.

Three reasons to like the STEELERS-PACKERS OVER 44½

• Both passing attacks should be effective indoors.

• The Packers will barely use the running game, making the tempo very fast.

• If the Packers get a couple of early scores, the Steelers are comfortable with opening their attack.

CONFERENCE FINALS: 2-0

SEASON: 18-25-1