Steelers vs Patriots: 3 key matchups to watch in week one
Bonus—Samuel Adams Lager: Special Teams
Let’s be honest, a Samuel Adams Lager has nothing on the ole classic Iron City Beer. But, it is a lager that is specially brewed in the heart of New England.
This match up will be just as important as the other two phases of the game. In his first 5 years with the Giants, Belichick specialized in special teams play on his way to becoming a dominant defensive coordinator. His unit’s special teams play remains as a gold standard in the NFL
The Steelers special teams will have to create an advantage in field position battle—especially if this becomes a close game. The field position battle can be an underrated aspect of the game. You’d rather have your opponent start from their 15 than their 35-yard line.
The Steelers will have to play disciplined kickoff, return, and punt coverage. One breakdown can spring a big return and put your defense at a disadvantage—or worse.
This game will also feature a key battle of the kickers. After a monumental collapse in 2018, Boswell has looked to return to his 2017 form. That year, he won Pittsburgh many games and was even declared an official “Killer B” by teammates.
On the flip side, when was the last time the Patriots had kicking problems? They have had the luxury of having dependable kickers early with Adam Vinatieri and Stephen Gostkowski. Belichick values his special teams pieces in every phase of special teams.
Next. Steelers outside of top 10 in average power rankings heading into week 1. dark
Sunday Night Football on NBC—it’s music to my ears! The Steelers have a full plate in Foxboro this week—but this unit looks to be locked, loaded, and focused as they go to not slay the dragon but “be the dragon” as Cam Heyward expressed. Pittsburgh looks to set the tone early and put the NFL on notice week 1 in Gillette Stadium.
Here We Go Steelers!