5 things you must know about the Steelers Week 8 matchup vs Ravens

The Pittsburgh Steelers secondary have to deal with Marquise Browns, Mark Andrews, and Willie Snead IV if not much else.

The Pittsburgh Steelers don’t have as much of a challenge when it comes to handling pass catchers in Week 8. Willie Snead IV had an up and down campaign with the Saints originally until multiple injuries lowered his effectiveness, even though he is still capable. Marquise Brown is cousins with former Steeler Antonio Brown but has not been as good of a player. However, Brown is very dangerous with the ball in his hands and can put up multiple highlights every week. Mark Andrews was one of the best tight ends in the league in 2019 and even with less of a splash in 2020 is still a certifiable threat in the red zone on any down.

While the Ravens secondary vs the Steelers wide receivers is going to be an elite matchup, the same can’t be said when the possession is switched. Lamar Jackson has been bad this season under pressure and this team doesn’t have the receivers to be able to help him out. Steven Nelson has been beaten a few times the previous two weeks but this should give him a great chance to come back strong. The biggest threat to this secondary is Brown’s speed, however, Joe Haden has shown the ability to keep fast guys in front of him with elite technique. Terrell Edmunds has been doing very well in coverage recently and particularly in Week 7. I expect him to continue playing well against Mark Andrews in this matchup for the majority of the game.

This isn’t going to be a battle between position groups that are going to be watched closely through the majority of the game. However, this game is going to be a close defensive game. At some point, the Ravens are going to have to throw the ball to make a big play. If this secondary can keep everyone in front of them, and be patient, they should be able to get multiple interceptions on a heavily pressured Lamar Jackson.