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Start Hampton and Smith and rotate in Hoke for the 2 DT's. With Harrison unlikely to play, they might be better off with 5 DB's and 4 linebackers. With the mikelback in, Polamolu can play closer to the line, move all around the field presnap, and blitz occasionally.

Don't panic if they run for 80-100 yards the first half, and look to strip the receivers after the quick slants and outs.

Be aggressive on special teams, not an onside kick, but try to block a punt or two.

The silent count must work, and if the right tackle can't contain Freeney 'cause he is lining up too far outside, put the tight end or fulback in motion over to his side, or go with two tight ends.

Corey Simon won't be able to play every down, so be smart about when to run up the middle.

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This looks like a good plan to me. You have to give them the run and allow them to move the ball a bit, making them earn as many first downs as possible on each drive.

If I was a Steelers fan, my biggest concern right now would be Bill Cowher. This is a winnable game for a Steelers team that is really peaking. But the things the Steelers must do to win this game involve moving away from the cliches of smashmouth football. They have to give up the run on defense and open it up a bit on offense. The question is whether Cowher will be too stubborn to do this.

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and please, no crazy onside kicks