Steelers need to set the tone early in the season with Week 1 win

The Pittsburgh Steelers will face a tough division rival in the first week of regular season play. Will Mike Tomlin’s perform well against the reigning AFC Champions?

Divisional games hold significant value during the NFL’s regular season. Each team is given six opportunities to secure a weighted win against a team who shares the same division. The team who experiences the most success against their rivals earns a spot in the playoff picture.

Accomplishing this task in the AFC North is easier said than done. With an impressive level of talent in the division, the Steelers’ journey to the playoffs next season begins in week one.

Steelers look to have a promising start to the new season

September 11th has been circled on the calendars inside of the Pittsburgh locker room for several months. It symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter for the Steelers organization. An opportunity to defeat a divisional opponent in week one will add extra anticipation for the season’s opening kickoff. For rookies like Kenny Pickett and George Pickens, the day will hold a richer significance.

With hard work and perseverance, both players could have their first professional appearance. While the Steelers continue to look forward toward a bright future, their interconference foes are focused on building on an impressive end to last season.

Ja’Marr chase and Joe Burrow did not waste time on the gridiron last season. During their first season reunited after their collegiate careers, Cincinnati’s air raiding duo accounted for 1,455 yards. Adding a complimenting running force like Joe Mixon into the equation has made the Bengals a must-watch team for the upcoming season.

While Pittsburgh works to prepare for the season ahead, fans around the league question whether the team has enough firepower to support their young quarterback. Questions concerning who will win the starting role at gunslinger have not made it easy for an analyst to buy into the Steelers wholeheartedly. Talent like Mitchell Trubisky and Pickett should be enough to keep the Steelers above water – but they will need additional help if they plan to swim to the top of their division.

Steelers need a balanced offense to see maximum results in 2022

Finding a balanced offensive game plan will help the Steelers feed confidence into their young quarterbacks. Without the help of Ben Roethlisberger this season, the Pittsburgh offense must find to control the pace of the game.

Running behind Najee Harris could be one of the solutions. In 2021, Harris accumulated 1,200 yards and seven touchdowns – leaving room for more production this season. If Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada balances the ground and passing attack, the Steelers will be in a better position to compete.

Pittsburgh’s week one matchup will set the tone for the rest of their regular season. If the Steelers can manage a win against the defending AFC champions in week one, it will forecast the team’s potential ceiling this year.

Mitch Trubisky and Kenny Pickett have the potential to lead their team further than many projects. If the Steelers want to participate in the 2022 playoff picture, their work will begin in week one.