Very few should expect the Steelers to beat the Eagles in their Week 15 matchup. History tells us that Pittsburgh has a troublesome past going against them as they hit the road. Nothing about this upcoming battle seems to be easy versus their cross-state rivals. They are going to have to overcome plenty of problems, one of them being the injuries that they will be dealing with.
If the Steelers are unable to keep this game close in a gritty environment, then don't expect a great result for the away club. Pittsburgh needs to force the Eagles into a situation that they have forced Baltimore into many times.
If the Steelers can do that, then their chances of winning will increase. Pittsburgh's only shot at victory will be reliant on many different players stepping up to prove their contending status.
Calvin Austin III, WR
With George Pickens still out of the lineup with his hamstring injury, it is going to take a group effort to take his snaps. Calvin Austin III has proven to be a better target with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback. Austin cannot be the only receiver for Pittsburgh to target in this game, but he has gained plenty of the top snaps at practice. Expect Austin to have an increased role this week.
Joey Porter Jr., CB
Pittsburgh should be focusing on containing the Eagles' rushing offense and forcing Jalen Hurts to be in the pocket. Even if they accomplish that, Philadelphia has plenty of quality receivers. Joey Porter Jr. has slid in his performance recently. It will be up to him to turn things around. With A.J. Brown expressing his frustrations, Porter will need to tamper down any bounce-back game performances.
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Steelers entire offensive line
Consistency has been lacking from the Steelers offensive line as a whole. They need to be on their A-game against the Eagle's disruptive front. Each player from the left side to the right will need to have the best game of the year. Running against this Eagles' defensive line is almost impossible. Protecting Wilson to give him a shot downfield will be one of their best opportunities to win this contest.
Patrick Queen, LB
With certain players likely missing this game due to injury, it will be up to the linebackers to step up. Patrick Queen got paid a lot of money in free agency from the Steelers, and he needs to get going against the Eagles. He will need to potentially spy on Hurts, but he will also be a big factor in stopping Saquon Barkley. Queen needs to have his best game in a Pittsburgh uniform to boost their defense.
Najee Harris, RB
It is going to be hard to run the ball against this Eagles defense. Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren could run into a lot of walls this week if their offensive line can't block efficiently. Harris needs to find ways of churning out yards whenever he can. He has also shown the ability to catch more passes out of the backfield, so that could be a big factor this week. Pittsburgh needs to get creative with their backs.