How good is the new offensive line?
The Steelers have finally made some significant investments and improvements to the offensive line over the past two seasons. No longer are mid-round picks with questionable talent the preferred starters, as big free-agent deals and some premium draft capital have been used to bolster this group.
The question is, will it be worth it? The Steelers new and improved line will certainly face a tall task in the 49ers defensive line. Look no further than Javon Hargrave, as the former Steelers nose tackle has become a force of nature. Arik Armstead is a force next to him, while rookie Drake Jackson was highly regarded as a rookie. Oh, and how could we forget about Nick Bosa who should play after receiving a record-setting deal this week?
The interior of the Steelers line is the perceived strength, but they will have their hands filled with the likes of Hargrave and Armstead. Pittsburgh’s tackles are less at risk, although they will still have to combat the edge rushers that the 49ers employ.
If this team wants to be run-focused, they will need to win in the trenches. They have clearly invested there in recent years, but the proof will be in the pudding on Sunday. This will be a huge battle all game, and the winner of the trench battle will likely determine the outcome of who ultimately wins in week one.