Steelers vs. Colts 12/16/23 – As the NFL season progresses into Week 15, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Indianapolis Colts, both carrying a 7-6 record, are set to face off in a pivotal matchup. This encounter, slated for December 16, 2023, at Lucas Oil Stadium, holds significant playoff implications. With both teams evenly matched, top betting websites are abuzz, offering insights and predictions for this crucial game.
Steelers vs. Colts 12/16/23
| When: | Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 4:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Lucas Oil Stadium |
| TV: | NFL Network |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steelers | +1.5 -110 | o42.5 -110 | +104 |  |
| Colts | -1.5 -110 | u42.5 -110 | -124 | |
| ||||
The Captain 🫡💪#WPMOYChallenge @CamHeyward #ProBowlVote @CamHeyward pic.twitter.com/sh9ZfmhEvS
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) December 13, 2023
Kenny Pickett QB vs. Gardner Minshew QB
For Pittsburgh, rookie Kenny Pickett has steadily improved, posting a 72% completion rate with 3 touchdowns and no picks over the last two games. His mobility and ability to throw on the run have added a dynamic element compared to his pocket-passing predecessor Ben Roethlisberger. While still growing, Pickett’s recent efficiency managing drives gives Pittsburgh’s offense hope going forward.
Gardner Minshew has injected stability into Indianapolis’ offense since taking over midseason. He averages 194 passing yards per game with a respectable 6.7 yards per attempt. Minshew’s accuracy (63%) and 11:8 TD to INT ratio demonstrate efficiency moving the chains. His quick throws and scrambling ability provide a change of pace that could challenge Pittsburgh. Still, he lacks the playmaking upside to explode for huge numbers.
Steelers’ Offensive Dynamics: Ground Game and Aerial Threats
In the run game, Najee Harris is the engine driving Pittsburgh’s offense. Despite nagging injuries, he averages 53 rushing yards per game with the versatile skill set to impact the passing attack when needed. Rookie receiver George Pickens has emerged as a dangerous weapon that opposing secondaries must account for. His 15.7 yards per catch and knack for highlight-reel plays provide a quick-strike element to compliment Harris’ steady production. This young core offers promise for the future.
Colts’ Offensive Strategy: Balanced Rushing and Receiving Corps
For the Colts, running back Zack Moss supplies reliable rushing production, clearing 60+ yards on the ground 6 times in his last 7 games. His between-the-tackles running style sets up play-action shots downfield. Top wideout Michael Pittman Jr. is the key beneficiary, averaging 75 receiving yards per game with his large catch radius. His 46 first downs lead the team as he excels muscling out contested catches to move the sticks. Together, Moss and Pittman form a methodical attack that grinds down defenses.
NFL Betting Odds: Indianapolis Colts -135, Over/Under: 39.5
The Colts are slight favorites in this matchup, likely due to their home-field advantage and recent performance. The Over/Under set at 39.5 indicates expectations of a relatively low-scoring game, reflecting the defensive strengths of both teams.
Trends
Steelers Betting Trends
Pittsburgh are 13-7 ATS in their last 20 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Pittsburgh’s last 11 games.
Pittsburgh are 13-7 SU in their last 20 games.
Steelers are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games against Indianapolis.
Pittsburgh are 8-0 SU in their last 8 games against Indianapolis.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Pittsburgh’s last 6 games on the road.
Colts Betting Trends
Indianapolis are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Indianapolis’ last 8 games.
Indianapolis are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Indianapolis’ last 9 games against Pittsburgh.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Indianapolis’ last 7 games at home.
Indianapolis are 0-5 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Pittsburgh.
Steelers vs. Colts Betting Picks
Analyzing both teams, the Steelers have an edge historically, but the Colts’ recent form cannot be ignored. The key will be how Pickett handles the Colts’ defense and whether Minshew can exploit the Steelers’ secondary. For NFL betting picks, this game presents a close call, with potential value in betting on the underdog Steelers to cover the spread.
For a better pick, considering the recent trends and matchups, the Colts might have a slight edge, especially playing at home. Prop bets on running backs and primary receivers could offer additional value, given their importance to both offenses. The Over/Under is a tricky call, but leaning towards the UNDER might be prudent, considering both teams’ defensive capabilities.
Score Prediction: Colts 21, Steelers 17
