5 bold predictions for Steelers in Week 11 vs. the Chargers

Steelers don’t record a sack

One of the steadier aspects of this Steelers defense over the past few years is their ability to get after the quarterback. Earlier in the season, they were on an unprecedented 75-game sack streak before losing that to the Bengals. Even then, the team has still sacked the quarterback 26 times total this year, and this pass rush has easily been the best aspect of this team.

Unfortunately, the star of the pass rush is very much in question for this game. While T.J. Watt avoided a season-ending injury, he is still suffering in a major way from the Lions game. Even if he plays, he won’t be anywhere near 100 percent. This means Taco Charlton will step in as a contributor, and while he has looked good as a backup, it will be a tall task for him to be the sack artist that Watt is.

While Alex Highsmith and Cameron Heyward will still force pressures as well, having a mangled-up Watt (which is the best-case scenario) doesn’t scream great pass rush this week. Add in the Chargers stout offensive line and suddenly there is a chance that Justin Herbert is passing with clean pockets. This matchup does not look great on paper, and the Steelers will have to try their best to get after the quarterback despite their injuries upfront.