A victory in their season opener at Acrisure Stadium will gift the Pittsburgh Steelers more than a confidence boost. It would confirm the franchise’s recent changes were well thought-out. Defending home turf against the Atlanta Falcons isn’t mission impossible. But Mike McCarthy’s unit cannot expect a guaranteed victory.
Especially knowing Drake London plans to be an active participant in Atlanta’s offensive barrage.
Completing passes downfield has become easy for quarterbacks partnering with Atlanta’s former first-round pick. London’s 6'4" frame makes it easy to climb the ladder against smaller defenders. The result? More than 3,500 receiving yards and a 12.8-yard-per-catch average over the course of his career.
It’s impressive considering London has yet to play alongside a distinguished gunslinger. Marcus Mariota, Taylor Heinicke, and Kirk Cousins are the most experienced quarterbacks Atlanta’s wideout has shared the field with. Excuses are limited, and the production is evident. Even with Cooper Rush now forced into action as the Falcons' starting quarterback, London should not be underestimated.
The Pittsburgh Steelers defense must eliminate Drake London during Week 1
Limiting big plays through the air must become Pittsburgh’s focus during Week 1. Sure, Rush and London haven't had the chance to develop chemistry. But that doesn’t mean they won’t try to jumpstart it Sunday afternoon. In 2024, Pittsburgh shut down the Falcons’ leading receiver during an 18-10 victory. Drake London finished the outing with two receptions and 15 receiving yards.
At the time, Joey Porter Jr. shut down one of the league’s most dominant targets. However, things may be different this time around. Contract negotiations leave Pittsburgh’s lockdown cornerback’s status unclear for this weekend. Sure, Jamel Dean, Asante Samuel Jr., or even Jalen Ramsey are reliable insurance blankets to fill in if Porter Jr. is not available.
But I’d imagine Pittsburgh’s front office would want their standout defensive back on the field regardless of reinforcement.
A chance to expose Pittsburgh without Porter Jr. is a dream come true for Rush and London.
Last season, Pittsburgh ranked 29th in passing yards allowed per game (244.9). Defensive backs were tested early and often. It forced games to become closer than originally intended. And the Steelers cannot afford to let Week 1 repeat the same result.
Still, I believe Pittsburgh is prepared to defeat the Birds from down south. I also expect Joey Porter Jr. to play, which will limit London’s ability to impact the game. A win to kick off the season is more than achievable for Mike McCarthy’s squad. They will need a stout defensive performance to keep Atlanta’s stars muted Sunday afternoon.
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