Steelers vs Seahawks: 3 Key matchups to watch in week 2

Steelers O-Line vs Seattle Front Seven

The Seahawks seem to always have a strong front seven. Anchored by All-Pro Bobby Wagner, the Seattle front lines will look to give the Steelers fits in Heinz Field.

The Seahawks acquired Jadevon Clowney to give a boost of athleticism from the Texans before the season started; who made an instant impact recording a sack and moving around the defensive line against the Bengals.

The Steelers offensive line may be without Maurkice Pouncey and have to start BJ Finney (who the NFL world will remember as the guy who forgot to snap the ball.) Though he has previous experience in this role, this will still take away an All-Pro player off the field and create a disadvantage.

After failing to establish a ground game last week, the Steelers offensive line will have to find a way to help churn out a better effort against a front seven that allowed only 2.4 yards a carry against Cincinnati.

The other concern will also be the Seahawks pass rush. Led by Quinton Jefferson’s two sacks and 3 QB hits, the Seahawks forced the Bengals to be one dimensional and dropped Andy Dalton 5 times.

The Steelers offensive line provided overall solid pass protection allowing only one sack. However, if the offensive line can’t get a better run game going, the Seahawks will be licking their chops and look to put Big Ben on the ground

The good news for the Steelers offensive line is they will be able to communicate better at home. The concern right now is the status of their center and how confident they are in Finney. Coach Sarrett will have a big task on his hands as he looks to prepare the offensive line against Pete Carroll’s front line.