Steelers stop Jefferson
Easily the biggest threat on the Vikings, Justin Jefferson picked up right where he left off after an incredible rookie season. He has been one of the best receivers in the league every week and has been the favorite target of Cousins. The Steelers, on the other hand, have a slower and more injured group of corners that should, in theory, be toasted by Jefferson.
With the Vikings losing Thielen to injury though, suddenly Jefferson is the only major threat on this offense. Sure, K.J. Osborn has been ok as a receiver, but he doesn’t scream elite by any means. This means the Steelers can and should focus their game plan on stopping Jefferson. By no means should he be the reason that the Vikings win this week.
The team will have the luxury of bracketing Jefferson this week with Cameron Sutton and Minkah Fitzpatrick. While this won’t completely stop the incredible wideout, it should limit his overall effectiveness. The goal won’t be to hold him to no catches but to instead limit his big plays and scores. The entire defense should be schemed around this, as Jefferson can do a lot of damage to any given defense every week.
The Steelers will be hoping to keep their winning ways going this week as they take on a Vikings team that is struggling. It won’t be an easy game, as the Vikings field a deceptively tough roster. Keep these bold predictions in mind as the Steelers face off against the Vikings on Thursday.