With the odds stacked against them the Steelers look to make a stand in a critical AFC matchup.
Without starting Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger the odds are stacked against the Steelers. The Patriots appear to be the best team in the AFC and prior to the Miami game this seemed like the game that would determine first place in the Conference. The Steelers lost at the Dolphins last week in a classic trap game. More importantly they lost their QB for what looks to be between two and four weeks.
Losing Ben for a few weeks in the season is nothing new but does come at a most inopportune time. The defense has to make significant improvement to keep the game competitive and the coaching staff better have a solid plan. Stopping the run is absolutely necessary in order to at least make the Patriots offense more one dimensional. Using maybe the best Running back in the league (Le’Veon Bell) in order to take pressure of the second string Quarterback is key. Of course this also drastically changes the fantasy landscape.
MUSTS: Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski
Brady has been playing at a very high level since returning from his four game suspension. This does not bode well for the Steelers as they are 28th in total defense. There is no way you are not playing Brady this week. Gronkowski had two touchdowns against the Steelers last season on opening night. Again, a solid defensive game plan will be required to contain the big Tight end. Le’Veon Bell is obviously a must start here as well.
MIGHTS: Antonio Brown, LaGarette Blount
Now I have said Brown is a weekly must start but for fantasy owners who had Brown last season the drop-off when Landry Jones was at Quarterback was huge. You are more than likely playing Antonio regardless but if you happen to have receiver depth and players with a more favorable matchup, a sub could be a good idea. Blount could be set to have a big game against Pittsburgh along with James White. The Steelers better be sharp with tackling to ensure the game does not get out of hand.
MISSES: Steelers DST
It is pretty simple they are going to have to play the best game of their season so far to keep things competitive or have a shot and winning.
Next: Steelers News: Williams, Shazier, Roethlisberger
Good Luck with your fantasy matchups and Go Steelers!