Ahh, the preseason. Speculation, depth charts, fantasy drafts and cooler weather. I can't wait for the NFL season to begin... and as a Steelers fan, what better way to start than the Thursday, December 7th season opener -- Miami at Pittsburgh. Here are my fantasy projections for the game:

MIAMI

Ronnie Brown - 20 rushes, 67 yards. 4 rec, 32 yards. 0 TDs.
Everyone loves Mr. Brown in the preseason, but get a taste of the Steelers Defense and get ready for a day full of nothin'. A couple catches out of the backfield will help with points, but don't count on rushing yardage.

Miami Defense - 1 INT, 0 TDs.
The Steelers aren't known for their offensive scoring (21.4 pts/g in '05) but watch them run it up on opening night as the Steel City welcomes Ben back from the [nearly] dead. Ben won't look great, but watch Willie Parker have his way with the Miami Defense, who will do very little but watch the Terrible Towels wave.

PITTSBURGH

Willie Parker - 22 rushes, 112 yards. 1 rec, 14 yards. 2 TDs.
Willie won't rest on his Super Bowl laurels as he rambles for his first of many 100+ yard games. Assuming he gets the calls inside the 5 yd line, watch him collect two scores.

Hines Ward - 7 rec, 69 yards. 1 rush, 10 yards. 1 TD.
His hammie is fine, and he loves this game! Ward will get loose across the middle and will be a target inside the 20 yd line. Don't be surprised to see and end-around or two. Injured Dolphins CBs could get him into double-digit receptions.

PREDICTION

The Steelers, their rabid fans, and millions of eager viewers watch the Dolphins sink... Steelers win, 30-10.