7 players Steelers must game plan against in Week 4 statement game vs. Colts

The Steelers hit the road again to face the Indianapolis Colts, looking to build on the momentum from their most complete game of the season—a decisive win over the Chargers last week. Pittsburgh aims to carry that energy into a matchup against a Colts team that's had its share of struggles this season.

However, Indianapolis handed the Steelers a tough loss last year, so you can bet Pittsburgh is eager for revenge. Despite the Colts' challenges, they still have a few key players who could pose problems for the Steelers.

LG, Quenton Nelson

One of the NFL's premier guards is set for an exciting matchup against the Steelers' defensive line. Nelson’s physicality jumps off the screen every time you watch him, and his three All-Pro selections speak to his dominance. Facing him will be no easy task for the Steelers.

RB, Jonathan Taylor

The Colts running back is among the elite in the league, with the ability to change the course of a game single-handedly. Last week, the Steelers held the NFL's top rushing offense to just 61 yards, and they'll need that same level of discipline and intensity against the run this week. Letting Taylor take control is not an option, as he's the focal point of the Colts offense, and the key to their success.

C, Ryan Kelly

Another Pro Bowl offensive lineman stands as a key piece of the Colts' strong front. Facing both Quenton Nelson and Ryan Kelly will certainly be tough, but the Steelers have the best defensive line in the league and are ready for the challenge.

WR, Michael Pittman Jr.

Although Anthony Richardson has had a shaky start to the season, he remains their top passing option. We'll see if the Colts can spark their passing game, but he's still the team's biggest threat through the air.

QB, Anthony Richardson

Despite his struggles this season, he's a quarterback with the physical tools to be a serious threat. His ability to be a dangerous runner, combined with a rocket arm, has led to some jaw-dropping plays early in his career. While he'll face a tough challenge against this Steelers defense, Pittsburgh can't afford to underestimate him.

DT, Grover Stewart

A highly underrated player in the league, Stewart has stepped up as the Colts' best defensive lineman with DeForest Buckner on IR. While the Colts have had difficulty stopping the run as a defense, Stewart has been one of the top run stoppers in the NFL this season. Zach Frazier has had an incredible year so far, but it will be interesting to see how he handles the challenge of going up against Stewart.

LB, Zaire Franklin

Franklin is a tackling machine who made 15 tackles last week. He’ll be all over the field and is a key player in trying to stop the Steelers' run game.

Other Thoughts:

The Indianapolis Colts are not a team to overlook, but they do have significant issues. Their defense struggles to stop the run, and their offense, particularly Anthony Richardson, has had its challenges. From a matchup perspective, the Colts don't align well against the Steelers.

If Pittsburgh can maintain a strong run game and apply pressure on Anthony Richardson as they have with other quarterbacks this season, they should come away with the win.