On paper, it seems like the Steelers should be able to get a win against the Jets without many hiccups. New York enters this game in disarray after they fired their Head coach a couple of weeks ago and they hold a record of 2-4. If you look beyond those two factors, the Jets are a team that can challenge the Steelers. They have plenty of matchups that could sink Pittsburgh's chances.
Aaron Rodgers alone could lead the Jets to victory, especially after how poorly the Steeler's defense has played against veteran quarterbacks this season. The uncertainty that Pittsburgh currently has at the quarterback spot is also an unknown outcome right now. There are a lot of things going against the black and gold heading into their Week 7 matchup against the Jets.
Pittsburgh will have to win individual matchups for the Steelers to prevail
Joey Porter Jr.
With the number of weapons the Jets have on offense, Joey Porter Jr. has to have the best game of his career. Every snap he will be up against either Davante Adams or Garrett Wilson. Either one will be a challenge to overcome. So far, the Steelers duo at cornerback has been solid, but this will be their biggest test of the season to date. Porter needs to find ways of disrupting these star receivers.
Russell Wilson
If you read between the lines of what Mike Tomlin said in his weekly press conference, it seems like Russell Wilson will probably start over Justin Fields. Expect both quarterbacks to play to some extent, but Wilson will get the bulk of the snaps. Wilson needs to play a smart brand of football, but he needs to lead a consistent and structured offense that was missing with Fields as the starter.
Minkah Fitzpatrick
It is hard to label Minkah Fitzpatrick as a disappointment this season, but you would love to see him create a turnover or two. Rodgers has been more prone to throwing interceptions and Fitzpatrick has to find that part of his game again. He is still one of the better safeties in the NFL, but the Steelers are paying him to help in the turnover margin as well, but he hasn't produced in recent years.
George Pickens
Many expect the Steelers passing yardage to have an uptick once Wilson joins as the starting quarterback. That should be music to George Pickens's ears. He needs to have a huge performance against one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, Sauce Gardner. Pittsburgh has limited firepower on offense, and they are going up against one of the best defensive fronts. Pickens needs a strong performance.
Payton Wilson
Patrick Queen has been getting a ton of attention in recent weeks based on his questionable performances, but Payton Wilson is starting to form a strong role on defense. The Steelers need an athletic guy in the middle who can cover and shoot gaps. It is always hard to put full trust in a rookie, but Wilson is earning it. He will have to be a factor in the middle of the field on passing downs.