5 bold predictions for Steelers vs. Packers in week 4

GREEN BAY, WI - AUGUST 16: Robert Tonyan #85 of the Green Bay Packers catches a pass for a touchdown in front of Terrell Edmunds #34 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second quarter of a preseason game at Lambeau Field on August 16, 2018 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
GREEN BAY, WI - AUGUST 16: Robert Tonyan #85 of the Green Bay Packers catches a pass for a touchdown in front of Terrell Edmunds #34 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second quarter of a preseason game at Lambeau Field on August 16, 2018 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth (88) Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

With the Steelers limping to a disappointing 1-2 start, here are five bold predictions as the team faces the Packers in week four.

It hasn’t been a stellar start for the Steelers so far, as they have struggled heavily the past two weeks. Injuries and offensive deficiencies have kept this team back, and as a result, they have dropped two winnable games. This week is no easy task, as the team heads to Green Bay to take on the Packers. Here are five bold predictions for the Steelers vs. the Packers in week four.

Steelers Freiermuth moves the chains

It was mildly surprising that rookie tight end Pat Freiermuth was out-snapped by veteran Eric Ebron last week. Despite Ebron playing more though, Freiermuth still had the better day, catching his first touchdown on a physical shovel pass. While Ebron will still see the field at points, I think the Steelers reestablish Freiermuth as the primary tight end target this week.

As you will see shortly, the Steelers have to change how they use their offense this week, and I think a more run-based identity naturally favors Freiermuth. As well, the rookie tight end is simply outplaying Ebron in every facet. While not the natural athlete that Ebron is, Freiermuth has displayed better catching than the veteran and can be relied on more in the passing game.

All of this said I think Freiermuth sees the field a lot this week. His stats won’t be notable, four-five catches for 30 or so yards, but he is a safety valve for the offense and three of his catches go for first downs. The Steelers need to rely on their talented rookie more. He is clearly the future of the position and getting him as much playing time this season will set him up for future success.