Week 4 is here and the Steelers are traveling to Indianapolis to take on the Colts. After a statement win against the Chargers last weekend, the Pittsburgh team is fired up to secure another 'W' against the offensive powerhouse Colts.
There are several matchups to keep an eye on in this game, but here are 5 key ones that will ultimately determine the outcome in Indy.
Jonathan Taylor takes on the Steelers defensive line
The Steelers' defensive line has been dominating, shutting down a trio of top-tier RBs such as Bijan Robinson, Javonte Williams, and J.K. Dobbins. This weekend, they will face another formidable RB in Jonathan Taylor. Taylor has been averaging an impressive 5.1 yards per carry this season according to NFL's Next Gen Stats and previously recorded 86 yards on the ground against the Steelers back in 2022.
The absence of Alex Highsmith hurts the D-line, but second-year spitfire Nick Herbig has stepped up brilliantly in his place. Cameron Heyward also continues to be a game-wrecker, and Sunday against the Colts will be no different for the veteran superstar. The star-studded D-line also includes T.J. Watt who continues to provide splash plays on a weekly basis.
Although Taylor is a workhorse and can ultimately change the game in a blink of an eye, it will be an uphill battle for the Colts to upend and essentially dismantle this stout D-line which currently ranks at the top in the league.
Michael Pittman Jr. against Joey Porter Jr.
Steelers fans usually see Joey Porter Jr. assigned to cover the top wide receiver threat on the opposing team. This season, the first WR that comes to mind for Steelers fans is Alec Pierce, but historically, the standout performer has been Michael Pittman Jr. Even though the experienced WR has not recorded any eye-popping numbers this season so far, the fast and adaptable Pittman Jr. is well-known for creating space and being a dependable target for his QB.
Joey Porter Jr.’s greatest test will be to exhibit discipline by refraining from unnecessary contact and refusing to let Pittman Jr. get the best of him. The last time these two faced off, Pittman Jr. was knocked out of the game by a brutal hit from Damontae Kazee but still racked up 78 yards.
Laiatu Latu challenger to Dan Moore Jr.
Latu is primed to face off against Dan Moore Jr. as Kwity Paye continues to be out due to injury. The rookie Latu played well last weekend against the Bears, even recording a sack and a forced fumble on QB Caleb Williams.
Dan Moore Jr. continues to have a solid showing on the Steelers left side so far this season, showing significant improvement from last season. He has received praise from head coach Mike Tomlin and QB Justin Fields for keeping the offensive line steady and focused, while also improving his skills and mindset. Steelers fans are hoping to see more from the four-year tackle, especially against juggernaut Latu.
Colts secondary versus deep threat George Pickens
The Steelers have the opportunity to capitalize on a rather scant secondary on the Colts squad. Cornerback Kenny Moore II and backup Chris Lammons’ did not participate in practice Wednesday or Thursday, raising doubts about their availability for this weekend’s game.
We have seen Steelers QB Justin Fields not shy away from stretching the deep ball to George Pickens down the sidelines, or Calvin Austin III over the middle of the field. One would anticipate the Steelers passing game to exploit a depleted Colts secondary.
The turnover battle: Anthony Richardson style
The Colts' young QB has racked up a total of six interceptions so far this season according to NFL's Next Gen Stats. The Steelers' defense needs to continue making game-wrecking plays and put pressure on the QB to force him into making errant throws downfield or perhaps a Nick Herbig strip sack is in the works.
Richardson is comfortable launching the ball downfield and relying on WR’s Alec Pierce or Michael Pittman Jr. to make the catch. However, if his accuracy falters, things could go south fast for the second-year QB. It is important to note that head coach Mike Tomlin is very effective at game planning against newer QBs.
Keep an eye on the turnover battle as the Steelers' defense has forced a total of 4 interceptions this season. Steelers fans are hoping to see ballhawk Minkah Fitzpatrick force his first turnover of the season against the Colts on Sunday. Stay tuned Steelers Nation.