Pittsburgh Steelers (7-6) vs. Indianapolis Colts (7-6)
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Indianapolis Colts 12/16/23 – On Saturday afternoon, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Indianapolis Colts will collide in an important AFC clash. Both teams are currently fighting for playoff spots, so this Week 15 contest could have major postseason ramifications. Get our daily NFL free insights and advice before making your Steelers vs. Colts picks.
The Pittsburgh Steelers enter this game boasting an impressive 4-1 mark against the spread and giving up only 19.4 points per game on defense. Their passing attack has progressed well under rookie QB Kenny Pickett while Najee Harris continues to lead their run game with 4 touchdowns; yet overall the offense remains work in progress.
The Indianapolis Colts had struggled to remain consistent this season, yet had found new life since arriving at this game, winning four out of their previous five matchups and covering four. Starting QB Gardner Minshew had led them to 11 touchdowns with only 8 interceptions for an impressive 62.6 yard average per game from running back Zack Moss and veteran wideout Michael Pittman Jr. leading with 984 receiving yards; yet some doubt remains whether this offensive revival can last.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Indianapolis Colts 12/16/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 4:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Lucas Oil Stadium |
| TV: | NFLN |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Kenny Pickett QB vs. Gardner Minshew QB
Kenny Pickett has experienced growing pains but appears to be progressing as the season goes on. Through 12 starts, Pickett has amassed 2,070 yards with 6 touchdowns and four interceptions; although his touchdown numbers may not stand out among quarterbacks of his stature. Nonetheless, over his last five games Pickett has only committed one interception. Pickett set a career high of 257 passing yards during Week 13 by showing his athleticism by extending plays with his legs, although sometimes holding onto the ball too long resulted in drive-killing sacks. Pickett must take what the defense gives him – lean on run game to manage game effectively if forced throws downfield are avoided, get comfortable early by making high percentage, rhythm throws for success.
Gardner Minshew started off this season as an afterthought before bursting onto the scene midway through. Since taking over as the starting quarterback in Week 6, Minshew has amassed 2524 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions in 13 games he’s been involved with. Minshew favors conservative playstyle, favoring checkdowns over attacking defenses deep. Although he has developed strong rapport with top target Michael Pittman Jr., he will need other pass catchers to step up in order for Minshew to succeed. Minshew’s mobility allows him to keep plays alive and pick up first downs with his legs when necessary, serving well in caretaker duties thus far. But to maximize drives against Pittsburgh’s aggressive pass rush he must draw upon some of the magic that was seen earlier in his career with Jacksonville – get the run game going first so he can open play action passes to him.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Indianapolis Colts -135, Total Odds: 39.5
The betting odds slightly favor the Colts, with a -2.5 point spread indicating a close game. The total set at 39.5 suggests a lower-scoring affair, aligning with both teams’ recent performances.
Pittsburgh Steelers Betting Trends
The Steelers have gone 13-7 against the spread (ATS) in their last 20 contests overall, consistently covering oddsmakers’ expectations. The under has hit in 9 of Pittsburgh’s previous 11 matchups. The Steelers are also 13-7 straight up (SU) in their last 20 outings. Notable trends include Pittsburgh going 6-1 ATS in its past 7 meetings with Indianapolis. The Steelers are 8-0 SU in their previous 8 clashes with the Colts. Furthermore, the under is 6-0 in Pittsburgh’s last 6 road games.
Indianapolis Colts Betting Trends
The Colts have posted a 4-1 ATS record in their last 5 games, reliably covering the number. By contrast, the over has hit in 6 of Indianapolis’ previous 8 contests. The Colts are 4-1 SU during their last 5 outings. Against Pittsburgh specifically, the over is 7-2 in Indianapolis’ past 9 showdowns. The over is also 6-1 in the Colts’ last 7 home tilts. However, Indianapolis is 0-5 SU in its previous 5 home games versus the Steelers.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Indianapolis Colts 12/16/23 Betting Picks
Considering the recent trends and historical data, this game presents an intriguing matchup. The Steelers have the edge historically, but the Colts’ recent form cannot be ignored. The quarterback duel will be crucial, and Minshew’s experience might just give the Colts the edge they need.
For the final pick, the Colts, with their slight home advantage and recent form, seem to be a good bet. However, given the Steelers’ historical dominance in this matchup, an upset should not be ruled out. For those seeking elite expert advice, consider the total going OVER 39.5, given the Colts’ recent high-scoring games and the potential for both offenses to find their rhythm.
Free Pick and Prediction: Indianapolis Colts 24, Pittsburgh Steelers 21