Week 2 prediction overview
The first match upstarts with Juju Smith- Schuster, who actually produced more than I predicted last week against a top tier cornerback: Juju should be much more productive this upcoming game against Shaquill Griffin, who Pete Carroll will more than likely have shadow Smith-Schuster.
Griffin is a high quality corner in the league, but the advantage should go to Pittsburgh’s number one option in this one. If Carroll does not have to shadow Juju, he’ll more than likely throw the double team at him. Smith-Schuster will find ways to get things done, no matter what coverage is thrown his way this week. Behind Griffin, there are not too many coverage threats in Seattle’s secondary. Roethlisberger should be able to pick apart the secondary with ease come Sunday.
With Donte Moncrief still dealing with a finger injury, James Washington is going to have to be the guy to step up opposite of Juju. Fans should expect Washington to make a handful of down the field plays for the Steelers in week 2.
For Pittsburgh to beat the Seahawks over the top though, they have to establish the run early. James Conner should be one of the driving forces from the very first drive. Look for Conner to have a multi-touchdown day after being held in check against the Patriots.
Steelers defense heading into Week 2
Pittsburgh’s defense played a vast majority of the game during Sunday Night Football. The Steelers offense should look to manage the game more appropriately this Sunday, giving the defense the time they deserve to rest throughout the game. Still, this Pittsburgh defense will have their hands full due to Seattle weapons such as Chris Carson, D.K Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and of course the dual-threat quarterback Russell Wilson.
Sean Davis is back, however, bringing Pittsburgh’s secondary back to full strength. At the end of the game, I find the Steelers will find ways on both sides of the ball to get out with a 35-28 win. I am not the only one confident Pittsburgh comes away with their first win of the season at their home opener this weekend.
Below, is the predicted outcomes from the rest of the team here at Still Curtain. Following the prediction table, is the contributor week 2 explanations.