Pittsburgh – The Steelers are attempting to become the first team since the 1985 New England Patriots to reach the Super Bowl by winning three road games. After emotional wins against Cincinnati and Indianapolis in the first two rounds, running back Jerome Bettis was asked if he was worried that his team might be running out of steam.
“We can’t,” he said. “If you understand what it’s all about – I don’t think we should be running on steam right now, you’re running on all heart by now.”
On Tuesday, coach Bill Cowher was asked if his team might struggle to get charged up for Sunday’s AFC championship game against the Broncos.
“For about the last month, every win has been emotional,” he said. “I don’t see how Sunday’s game could be any more emotional. We’re just thinking that if we can win this game, we can play in another one.”
All for one
While the Steelers always have been considered a tight-knit team, Cowher said this year’s squad has proven especially so, particularly with regards to the relationship between players and coaches.
“Our success has been a combination of things,” he said. “The players are the ones who win the games, let’s face it. But they have to have trust in the things you’re asking them to do. We have great relationships around here.”
Covering new ground
In the Colts’ 26-7 regular-season win over Pittsburgh, the Steelers were burned on an 80-yard touchdown pass from Peyton Manning to Marvin Harrison on the first play from scrimmage. In last Sunday’s 21-18 divisional playoff victory, Pittsburgh didn’t allow the Colts’ wide receivers any catches of more than 24 yards.
