The Pittsburgh Steelers must obtain a win to get back on track this season. Here’s why they will put it all together to beat the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a chance to make a statement in their upcoming match-up, and Heinz Field will be filled with support for the second consecutive week. A win against a division rival would be a perfect gift for the fans who humbly wave their terrible towel.
As Pittsburgh prepares for their Sunday afternoon showdown, Steeler Nation can find peace knowing these three things will help lead this team to victory:
1. Najee Harris will show why he belongs
Matt Canada and the Pittsburgh offense must be prepared to run the ball this week. Pittsburgh has failed to show their opponents that they are willing to run the football. When compared to other teams, Pittsburgh’s 114 yards rushing sits at the bottom of the league. Najee Harris has become more involved in the offense each week despite the Steelers inability to run on offense.
Running the football must be the priority for the offense this week. The team’s passing attack will be limited due to Ben Roethlisberger’s recent injury. He has been spending most of his week nursing a left pec injury. When asked about the status of his starting quarterback, Mike Tomlin informed reporters that the team must be ready to adjust.
Roethlisberger is expected to play despite feeling soreness when he throws the football. The Steelers must be able to rely on Harris’ ability to win the game.
2. Pittsburgh’s defense sets the tone
Keith Butler and the defense must set the tone early on Sunday. The Steelers have allowed 24.5 points per game this season, according to Team Rankings. As the offense struggles to find its identity, Pittsburgh’s defense must protect the endzone.
T.J Watt and the defensive front will be able to disrupt the Bengals’ offense. Joe Burrow has been playing behind an offensive line that has had trouble protecting him this season. According to CBSsports.com, Burrow has been taken down thirty-two times this season. The Steelers are known for putting pressure on the quarterback and should be able to continue to do so this week.
3. Steelers protect the football
Losing is not an option for Pittsburgh this Sunday. Two losses in consecutive weeks would send the wrong message to the teams following. The Steelers suffered a loss last week at the hands of the Las Vegas Raiders and are looking to bounce back. The Pittsburgh coaching staff understands that protecting the football is a high priority.
Pittsburgh’s Matta Canada and Keith Butler will have to control the tempo on their sides of the ball to help Pittsburgh orchestrate a victory. If Pittsburgh can execute, the chance of winning is in their favor.
The Steelers have had the advantage on the Cincinnati Bengals for quite some time. Despite having a sixty-five percent winning percentage against the Bengals, the Steelers must be ready for anything.