PITTSBURGH (AP) The coach is edgy and unhappy. The quarterback is dealing with another concussion, his fourth since 2006. The defense isn't the same with two of its best players injured and out. Every kickoff is creating anxiety. Every game is becoming an adventure.

Has it really been only 10 months since the Pittsburgh Steelers won the Super Bowl?

The Steelers won't say so, but they expected to be cruising toward the playoffs by now, with all but two starters back from an experienced, proven team that won its second Super Bowl in four seasons. Their schedule is much softer than last season's, with no Colts, Patriots, Cowboys, Giants or Eagles to be found and a healthy mix of Lions, Browns and Raiders. (MORE)