Most interesting 2023 opponents for the Pittsburgh Steelers

1. Pittsburgh Steelers vs San Francisco 49ers

Though a lot can change between now and the 2023 season, it’s certainly looking like the San Francisco 49ers are going to be the most difficult team on Pittsburgh’s schedule. The 49ers started off sluggish this past year (much like the Steelers) but ultimately emerged as the hottest team in the NFL — winning 10 straight games to close out the 2022 season.

In the process, San Francisco earned the second seed in the NFC, and many believe they should be Super Bowl favorites. Kyle Shannahan has been brilliant this season, and the acquisition of RB Christian McCaffrey gave them elite skill players across the board.

Defensively, there’s no better team in football right now, as Nick Bosa should run away with the Defensive Player of the Year award for his efforts in the 2022 season. This defense finished number one in DVOA defense during the regular season as well as points per game allowed.

It will be exciting to see what Kenny Pickett can do against a potentially legendary defense as well. We will watch Nick Bosa and T.J. Watt to see who can be the biggest defensive X-Factor in this contest. I’m sure San Francisco will be the heavy favorite, but this game could show how close or how far the Pittsburgh Steelers truly are when it comes to competing for a Super Bowl title.