Titans: What are the Chances...?

The Steelers are a three-point favorite against the Titans — surprising, considering how well Tennessee has fared this season and how shaky the Steelers have been. Pittsburgh’s problems are now compounded by the rash of injuries that have hit the team. Of course, Ben Roethlisberger’s foot is the most significant. Even if Big Ben plays on Sunday, one wonders how effective he will be while hobbling around behind his makeshift, banged up offensive line. And with James Harrison out of the lineup the Steelers will be without one their two big playmakers on defense. Perhaps Pittsburgh will be reinvigorated by its home crowd, but I wouldn’t count on it.

I do like the fact that the Steelers have brought back Big Max (Max Starks) to protect Big Ben’s blind side, though it seems like a daunting challenge for him to go from being unemployed on Monday to starting left tackle on Sunday. But Starks has come back from being out of favor before. Let’s hope he can do it this season, too.

At any rate, I’m picking the Titans to win. What are the Chances is 3-1 thus far in 2011 and 62-27 all-time.

Starks receives transition tag

In a somewhat surprising development, the Steelers have tagged OT Max Starks as their "transition player," meaning that the team has the right to match any offer the fourth-year vet receives in free agency. If Starks does not reach a long term contract agreement (with the Steelers or another team) he will be paid roughly $6.9 million next season. If the Steelers elect not to match any contract offer Starks receives they would receive no compensation.

This move could mean that the club is concerned about LT Marvel Smith's back condition, and that they plan to use Starks at left tackle if/when Smith is unable to play. It could also mean that Starks is viewed as Smith's successor at left tackle, as Marvel's contract expires after next season. If Starks plays right tackle it means that the Steelers plan to reshuffle their offensive line, perhaps moving RT Willie Colon to right guard and RG Kendall Simmons to center.