3 keys to victory for the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Chargers in Week 3

The Los Angeles Chargers roll into town as both teams aim to kick off the 2024 season 3-0. This showdown between two physical, hard-nosed teams is one that true football purists will appreciate.

Jim Harbaugh has quickly transformed the Chargers’ culture and identity, molding them into a run-first squad that prides itself on stout defense—mirroring the same blueprint the Pittsburgh Steelers have followed for years. Expect a tightly contested game, and these are the critical keys to victory the Steelers must execute to stay undefeated.

Continuing mistake-free football

The Steelers have excelled at protecting the football, with a conservative offensive approach minimizing the risk of turnovers. Meanwhile, the Chargers have also been impressive in keeping the ball secure.

In a game where every possession is critical, the team that commits the first turnover could be at a serious disadvantage. If the Steelers continue to win the turnover battle as they’ve done so far, their chances of coming out on top look strong.

Stalling out the Chargers' run game

The Steelers have yet to face a truly potent running game this season, but that's about to change. Their upcoming matchup will be the first real test of how elite this defense can be, especially against the run. The Chargers' offense revolves around their ground game—shut it down, and you'll force them to adjust, making them beat you through other avenues.

If the Steelers' offense can step up, build an early lead, and put the Chargers in a pass-heavy situation, it could set the stage for their pass rush to dominate and take control of the game.

Let Justin Fields make plays

It feels like this game is going to come down to which quarterback steps up and makes the key plays when it matters most. At some point, Arthur Smith has to put his trust in Justin Fields and let him take charge in crunch time.

Last week, we saw the offense stall in the 2nd half, almost as if they were content with sitting on a lead rather than pushing to score more points. You can’t afford that kind of approach against a strong team like the Chargers.

Justin Fields is an explosive talent, and it's time to unleash that. Opening up the passing game a bit more could be the key to putting up the points they’ll need. For once, it would be refreshing to see the Steelers keep their foot on the gas for the entire four quarters, rather than playing conservatively.

Sure, it’s easier said than done, especially in a game where scoring opportunities could be scarce for both teams, but at the very least, let’s see what this offense is truly capable of when it’s firing on all cylinders.