4 keys to victory for Steelers to keep momentum rolling vs. Broncos

The Steelers enter week two with a bit of a chip on their shoulder. The entire league seemed to look past them in Week 1 against the Falcons, and their odds only got worse when Russell Wilson went from starter to out in a short period. It didn’t matter though, as the team came out and did enough to win.

This week, the focus has shifted. Fields has been announced as the starter already, so he has the entire week to prepare. Their opponent lost by one score last week, but that doesn’t tell a complete story. The Broncos offense was putrid, and their defense was advantageous but also failed to stop the Seahawks well.

This is a winnable game, but as we all know there is no easy win in the NFL. The Steelers need to come in and take care of business this week if they want to maintain their spot as the top dogs in the AFC North. Here are four keys to victory for the Steelers to beat the Broncos.

Key #1: Steelers defensive line needs to stay prominent

The Broncos don’t boast an offensive line nearly as good as the Falcons but in a similar vein, they possess better tackles than interior options. While the edge rushers should be able to beat their matchups, the interior of the line could have a big day. They were stout in week 1, but they could really go off this week.

Keeanu Benton has a prime matchup with Luke Wattenberg and could go off. Meanwhile, Ben Powers doesn’t inspire much inspiration at guard. The team could see some big guys destroy the Broncos pocket and force Bo Nix to roll out of pressure. That is easily a huge key in securing a win this week.

Key #2: Steelers need to get Jaylen Warren cooking

It was a slow week 1 for Jaylen Warren. Despite a very equal workload split just a year ago, Warren was barely used against the Falcons. This made sense, as Warren injured his hamstring and was still in recovery. Giving him some extra time to heal up, especially when Pittsburgh didn’t need the big play, was logical.

This week though, Warren should be a little healthier and should be ready to contribute more. I think he can also exploit this Broncos defense. Warren should be used more extensively this week, and he could end up being a destructive force to the Broncos defense.

Key #3: Steelers need to let Fields cook

One of the biggest issues in Week 1 was the Steelers early hesitation to let Field play like he normally does. The offense was extremely bland and safe, and it resulted in a slow start for this team. As the game went on, the offense opened up more, and as a result, Fields looked like more of a complete threat.

With Fields being the starter this week well ahead of the game, the offense has to be ready to work through him this week. We don’t need to see the same bland and reserved offense as we saw last week. Give Fields the reigns early and let him show the league what he can do as a starter for this team.

Key #4: Steelers need to let Nix win the game

Despite being heavily hyped up by the Broncos,  Bo Nix had a horrible showing in his debut game. He struggled to move the ball and threw a pair of interceptions. He never looked comfortable, and the Steelers defense has to be licking their lips right now.

It isn’t like the Broncos boast a great running game either. Their running backs failed to do much on the ground. The goal has to be for the defense to let Nix be the reason the Broncos win. Add in the staunch front seven and Nix could be in for a long day. Don’t let anything else keep the Broncos alive. Put the pressure on the rookie and keep the pressure constant on him.