The Steelers are gearing up for another primetime showdown, this time facing the New York Giants on Monday Night Football. With emotions running high for Steelers fans, this is a crucial opportunity to secure a win heading into the bye week against a struggling 2-5 Giants team. But in the NFL, no opponent should be underestimated, especially with New York's roster featuring some talented players.
Pittsburgh can't afford a slow start—they need to build on the momentum from last week's big win. To keep the winning streak alive, the Steelers must gameplan effectively for these five key Giants players.
WR, Malik Nabers
This rookie wide receiver has quickly proven himself as the best in this year’s draft class, making an impressive impact right out of the gate. Already establishing himself as one of the league’s top receivers, the Steelers' secondary will face a tough challenge containing another standout talent for the second week in a row.
Brian Daboll has made Nabers a focal point of the offense, consistently feeding him close to double-digit targets each game. Pittsburgh’s defense must be prepared to double-team him at every opportunity, as he's capable of taking over a game and making it a long night for the defense if left unchecked. Developing a solid game plan to contain him is essential.
WR, Wan’Dale Robinson
Another standout wide receiver who plays a key role in the passing game. He currently leads the Giants in targets this season, capitalizing on Nabers’ absence due to a concussion. Known for his quickness and precise route running, he consistently finds ways to create separation and make plays.
QB, Daniel Jones
Despite the criticism Daniels receives as a quarterback, he remains a significant threat with his mobility. While he may be inconsistent as a passer, he’s capable of delivering big performances, and it’s crucial for the Steelers' pass rush to contain him within the pocket and prevent him from extending plays. Pittsburgh has historically handled mobile quarterbacks well, but containing Daniels will be key.
Additionally, the Steelers must find ways to free up TJ Watt, who often faces double and even triple teams on passing downs. Moving Watt around the field and using creative alignments could make it much tougher for opposing offenses to account for him.
It’s frustrating to see Watt lined up in the same spot each week, limiting his impact. The coaching staff should capitalize on his versatility to disrupt the offense and create more opportunities for game-changing plays to get after Daniel Jones.
DT, Dexter Lawrence
Widely considered the best defensive lineman in the NFL, Lawrence is having a dominant season, arguably the best by any defensive player in the league. He’s a force the Steelers interior offensive line hasn’t faced yet, and with a backup center still in the lineup, they’ll need a solid game plan to contain him.
Pittsburgh must prevent Lawrence from disrupting their run game and derailing their play-action passing with relentless pressure. If the offense hopes to replicate last week's performance, the offensive line will have to rise to the challenge and deliver like they did against the Jets.
DE, Brian Burns
An exceptional pass rusher, Brian Burns remains one of the NFL’s most underrated talents. Despite spending his entire career on a struggling Carolina Panthers team, he has consistently flown under the radar.
Burns possesses a dynamic combination of speed and power that makes him a relentless threat on the field, demanding extra attention from opposing offenses. His versatility and skillset can shift the momentum of a game, proving he's a player who deserves far more recognition.