Too early to overreact, but this Week 3 matchup between Pittsburgh and LA could have playoff implications at the end of the season. Both the Steelers and Chargers enter this game undefeated, and they hope to keep their winning ways alive. LA is jetting across the country to face the black and gold on their home field. Nothing about this matchup is leaning heavy one way or the other.
Heading into this game, both teams have a similar identity. They want to run the football a lot and take shots in the passing game based on their success on the ground. Their defenses have quality pass rushers and can create turnovers at a moment's notice. It is going to take the Steelers to perfect the smallest of details to get the better score when the clock strikes zero and secure a win on Sunday.
Steelers impact players need to show up big time against the Chargers
Justin Fields
Pittsburgh will be sticking with Justin Fields as long as they keep winning with him at quarterback. He hasn't done anything spectacular, but he remains turnover-free heading into Week 3. This will be his biggest test yet as the Chargers have one of the best pass-rush duos in the NFL right now. Fields needs to play smart and effective football for the Steelers to have a chance in this game.
Keeanu Benton
He has been quiet on the stat sheet for now, but Keeanu Benton has been wrecking offensive linemen during the first couple of games. LA wants to run the ball, and Benton is one of the most important players on the Steeler's defense for shutting that part of the game down. Benton needs to be disruptive against the run the entire game and pitch in rushing the passer when the situation arises.
Pat Freiermuth
He has been quiet overall for the Steelers since signing his big contract extension, but Pat Freiermuth needs to get more involved. Arthur Smith and company need to find ways to target Freiermuth over the middle of the field, especially in this game. If the Steeler's offense wants to run the ball well with a ton of tight ends on the field, then they can have one slide out for a pass once and a while.
Patrick Queen
Talking about big money thrown a player's way, look no further than Patrick Queen. He hasn't been terrible in his first two games with the Steelers, but he has been too inconsistent thus far. The Chargers want to run the ball, and it will be up to Queen and company to fill those rushing lanes. This is going to be a big test in the trenches and at middle linebacker for Pittsburgh in Week 3.
Jaylen Warren
It has been a slow start to the season for Jaylen Warren after missing most of the preseason process with a hamstring injury. He seems to be slowly coming back to form, but the Steelers could use his help to back up the play of Najee Harris, who is playing well right now. Warren needs to show the same explosiveness as last season against the Chargers. If both he and Harris have a strong day, then this will be a win for the Steelers.