Can the Steelers stop Zach Evans?
The Rams lost both of their top running backs a week ago, and it appears as though rookie Zach Evans is set to start against the Steelers. He has just four career carries to his name, and while he was productive in school, he was only a sixth-round pick. The Steelers need to be able to stop him and force the Rams to throw the ball.
That isn’t to say that the Rams can’t win through the air, as that is their offensive strength, but if this defense allows Evans the space to make big plays and keep the Rams churning forward, it will further limit this defense. Los Angeles can stay on schedule and the defense will constantly have to shift its focus from the run game to the passing game.
Worse yet would be if the Steelers allowed Evans to have a dynamic game. This run defense has been horrible this season so far, and Evans has become a trendy name as a potential sleeper player this week. If he gashes this defense, it will be more than likely a loss for this team off their bye week.
Instead, the Steelers need to ensure that Evans isn’t a factor in this game. The focus can then be on putting pressure on Matthew Stafford causing him to make mistakes. If Evans becomes a focal point of this offense and runs with ease, Pittsburgh won’t be able to keep this game close.