The New England Patriots welcome the Pittsburgh Steelers to Gillette Stadium today for a battle between what appears to be two fading powers. This afternoon's showdown between the two traditional AFC stalwarts is scheduled to get underway at 4:25pm ET on CBS. NFL Point Spreads from Sportsbook.ag are favoring the Patriots at -6.5 against the spread and -290 on the money line ($290 wins $100). The Over/Under in today's game is set at 43.5 points.

Despite being out-gained this season and generally looking lost on offense, the Patriots have, somehow, procured a 6-2 record.

Given its numerous poor to mediocre performances, which includes losses to the Jets and Bengals as well as wins over the Jets and Dolphins, there is a sense the other shoe could drop for New England at any moment.

That moment may be today with a desperate Steelers squad in town. Pittsburgh has not been its normal self this, but when it avoids shooting itself in the foot it still appears to have something left in the tank.

The Steelers, despite last week's loss to the Raiders, look as thought they have overcome their horrific 0-4 start.

Pittsburgh scored 19-6 and 19-16 wins over the Jets and Ravens, respectively, going into last Sunday's showdown with the rested Raiders, and it outscored Oakland 18-0 after the break.

The road dog role has been a good one for the Steelers of late as well, with Ben Roethlisberger and company posting a 3-1 straight up and against the spread record in their last four games catching points away from home.

Conversely, the Pats have been horrible opposite the number when playing as a home favorite with a total between 41.5 and 44 points, producing a 1-9 against the spread mark in their last 10 games in said situation.

NFL Point Spreads Pittsburgh Steelers vs New England Patriots:

Pittsburgh Steelers +6.5 (-110), Over 43.5 (-110), +240 (Moneyline)

New England Patriots -6.5 (-110), Under 43.5 (-110), -290 (Moneyline)

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