The Pittsburgh Steelers host the Chicago Bears for Monday Night Football in Week 9. Here’s what they must do to be victorious.
After a 1-3 start, things are starting to look bright for the Pittsburgh Steelers. They have put together three consecutive wins and improved on both sides of the ball. After a gritty victory against the division rival Cleveland Browns, 4-3 Pittsburgh sits third in the tight AFC North.
The Steelers’ next opportunity to extend their winning streak will be on Monday Night Football against the Chicago Bears. In complete opposite of Pittsburgh, the Bears will enter this matchup on a three-game losing streak. Chicago, sitting at 3-5, has been battling injuries while trying to find a team identity with rookie quarterback Justin Fields.
Although the Steelers will be favorites to win the game, nothing is given in the NFL. Pittsburgh has to show up and execute or they will be upset by the struggling Bears. Here are the three things the Steelers must do to get a victory Monday Night:
3. Steelers must rush for over 100 yards
One of the biggest takeaways from Pittsburgh’s three-game win streak is the improvement of the offensive line. After being one of (if not) the worst run-blocking lines in the NFL the last year and a half, they have begun to turn the corner. In the last three outings, the Steelers have rushed for 147, 119, and 115 yards.
During the Bears’ three-game losing streak, they have allowed 154, 182, and 145 rushing yards, so they are coming into town at the most opportune time for Pittsburgh. Chicago’s run defense is vulnerable, while the Steelers rushing attack is finding its rhythm. Pittsburgh must capitalize on this and dominate the run game. By doing that, the Steelers can control the clock, give their defense time to rest, and not have to rely on a struggling passing attack.