NFL: Colts vs Pittsburgh Steelers - Odds, Prediction & Picks

In a critical Week 15 showdown, the Pittsburgh Steelers (7-6) are set to clash with the Indianapolis Colts (7-6) at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 4:30 PM ET. Both teams, with identical records, are vying for a crucial win to enhance their playoff prospects. The Steelers, coming off a narrow 21-18 loss to the Patriots, face the challenge without their star quarterback Kenny Pickett, sidelined with an ankle injury. 

The Colts, on the other hand, are looking to rebound from a 34-14 defeat against the Bengals, navigating the game without key players like Jonathan Taylor and Braden Smith, both out with injuries. The matchup holds significant implications for the postseason race, making it a must-watch clash between two determined teams and providing interesting odds for PA bettors.

Steelers, known for their resilient defense led by T.J. Watt, will aim to stifle the Colts' offense, while the Colts, led by Gardner Minshew, seek to exploit the Steelers' defensive vulnerabilities. With playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the showdown promises high stakes and intense football betting action under the prime-time lights of Lucas Oil Stadium.

Odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers enter a crucial matchup against the Colts with a 7-6 record. Injuries could pose challenges as star quarterback Kenny Pickett is out with an ankle injury, impacting their offensive strategy. The defense, led by T.J. Watt, faces uncertainties with key players listed as questionable.

Pittsburgh Steelers Injury Report:

• Kenny Pickett | QB - Out (Ankle)
• Isaac Seumalo | OG - Questionable (Shoulder)
• Alex Highsmith | LB - Probable (Concussion)
• Najee Harris | RB - Unknown (Knee)
• Diontae Johnson | WR - Unknown (Knee)
• James Pierre | CB - Unknown (Shoulder)
• Damontae Kazee | S - Unknown (Ankle)
• T.J. Watt | LB - Unknown (Concussion)
• Cameron Heyward | DT - Unknown (Groin)
• Elandon Roberts | LB - Unknown (Groin)

Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts, also standing at 7-6, face the Steelers with key players dealing with injuries. The absence of Jonathan Taylor, Braden Smith, and other uncertainties could impact both their offensive and defensive strategies.

Indianapolis Colts Injury Report:

• Jonathan Taylor | RB - Out (Thumb)
• Braden Smith | OT - Out (Knee)
• Segun Olubi | LB - Out (Hip)
• DeForest Buckner | DT - Unknown (Back)
• Zaire Franklin | LB - Unknown (Illness)
• E.J. Speed | LB - Unknown (Knee)
• Will Mallory | TE - Unknown (Ribs)
• Julius Brents | CB - Unknown (Quad)
• Jaylon Jones | CB - Unknown (Ankle)

Head-to-Head: Over their last five meetings, the Pittsburgh Steelers have secured five wins against the Indianapolis Colts, showcasing their historical dominance.

Two things PA bettors must know before placing a bet on this game

• Injury Impact: Both teams face significant injuries, with key players like Kenny Pickett for the Steelers and Jonathan Taylor for the Colts either out or questionable. This could significantly influence the game dynamics.
  
• Defensive Showdown: Expect a defensive battle as the Steelers, led by T.J. Watt, go up against the Colts' defense. The under might be a favorable bet considering both teams' defensive strengths.

The upcoming clash between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Indianapolis Colts is poised to be a tightly contested battle, and assessing the Steelers' performance is crucial in predicting the outcome.

Recent form indicates the Steelers are facing challenges, coming off a close loss to the Patriots where their offense struggled to find rhythm. The absence of key players like Kenny Pickett adds complexity to their offensive strategy, relying on backup Mitch Trubisky to navigate the Colts' defense.

In previous meetings, the Steelers have historically dominated the Colts, winning their last five encounters. This historical advantage provides a mental edge and familiarity that could influence their approach.

Now, turning to the three traditional bets:

Spread (Colts -1.5): Despite the recent form, the Steelers have a history of performing well against the Colts. With a spread this close, the historical dominance might tilt the scale in favor of the Steelers, especially if their defense can contain the Colts' offense.
Moneyline (Colts -123, Steelers +103):The Moneyline suggests a slight advantage for the Colts. However, the Steelers, known for resilience, could capitalize on the historical dominance and potential defensive prowess to secure an upset victory.
Over/Under (Total: 42.5 points): Considering the defensive strengths of both teams and the absence of key offensive contributors, the game might lean towards the under. Expect a defensive battle with both teams struggling to rack up high scores.

In conclusion, the Steelers face challenges with injuries and recent form, but their historical success against the Colts could be a determining factor. The spread is narrow, making the Steelers an intriguing choice. The Moneyline leans towards the Colts, but the potential for an upset exists. Lastly, the game is likely to be a defensive struggle, favoring the under on total points.

Steelers +1.5 (-110) | DraftKings Sportsbook

In this matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Indianapolis Colts, taking the Steelers with a +1.5 spread at -110 odds on DraftKings appears as the best value bet. Historical dominance against the Colts, coupled with their resilience, could lead to a closely contested game. 

The narrow spread suggests an evenly matched battle, and the Steelers have a track record of performing well in such scenarios. With potential for an outright win or a close finish, backing the Steelers with the spread provides a balanced blend of value and probability in this matchup for PA bettors.