The Steelers are traveling to Philadelphia this weekend to take on Jalen Hurts and the Eagles. While this exciting interstate matchup is drawing attention, there is considerable concern among the Steelers fans about whether the team can match the Eagles’ offense.
Bragging rights are at stake in this Pennsylvania showdown between two teams with a combined record of 21-5 on the season. Here are five key matchups to watch in this Week 15 contest.
Jalen Hurts. Vs Steelers Defense
Without hesitation, the headliner matchup to watch is the Eagles QB Jalen Hurts against the Steelers defense. The Pittsburgh squad has proven effective against mobile QBs this season, managing to contain Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, and Jayden Daniels. However, what sets Hurts apart is his exceptional game awareness and skill in extending plays through his mobility, making him a formidable challenge for the Steelers.
The Eagles QB is incredibly well-equipped for aerial attacks, boasting talented playmakers like DeVonta Smith, A.J. Brown, and Saquon Barkley. This season, Hurts has maintained a respectable record with just 6 interceptions and has mastered the “brotherly shove” technique for short-yardage situations. However, to achieve even greater success, he must address a significant concern: the 35 sacks he has taken, which ranks among the top six in the league.
As the Steelers gear up to face the versatile and crafty Eagles QB, expect the ever-reliable Cameron Heyward and T.J. Watt to assert their dominance and disrupt the veteran QB’s rhythm.
Steelers Wide Receivers vs. Eagles Secondary
With superstar wide receiver George Pickens sidelined for another game, the Steelers’ WR room has a golden opportunity to demonstrate their resilience and “next man up” attitude. Last week, against the Browns, the Steel City squad impressively targeted nine different receivers, showcasing their ability to excel in the absence of a star player.
Steelers fans can look forward to seeing increased targets for Mike Williams and Scotty Miller this weekend, as these dependable and strategic players have what it takes to stretch the field effectively for QB Russell Wilson. Also, it is not to be forgotten that TE Pat Freiermuth is a legitimate bonus target for Russell Wilson in the middle of the field.
When it comes to the Eagles' secondary, all eyes will be on Darius Slay Jr. and C.J. Gardner Johnson to see if they can contain the inevitable moonball tendencies from Russell Wilson. Slay Jr. is a game-changing defender, boasting 10 passes defended this season, while Gardner-Johnson matches him with 10 passes defended and 3 interceptions.
It’s clear that the Steelers’ QB may struggle to find opportunities to stretch the field against this dynamic duo. To further heighten the difficulty, the Eagles’ defense ranks an impressive 2nd in the league against the pass, making it a daunting task for any QB they face.
Saquon Barkley vs. Steelers Defensive Line
Saquon Barkley is proving to be the most elusive running back in the league, making a compelling argument for NFL MVP this season. With 1,623 rushing yards and an astounding average of 6.1 yards per carry, he is poised to deliver a punishing performance against the Steelers run defense.
Although the Steelers’ defense has successfully contained power-runners like Derrick Henry, Barkley poses a different kind of challenge. Barkley can explode into the open field, making an impact both on the ground and in the air. If the Pittsburgh team cannot find a way to limit the RB juggernaut, it could turn into a real slugfest.
A few teams, such as the Browns and the Buccaneers, have successfully limited Barkley to under 100 rushing yards, showcasing effective defensive strategies. With concerns surrounding Defensive End Larry Ogunjobi’s potential absence this weekend, Isaiahh Loudermilk stands poised to seize a starting role and make a difference.
Additionally, Keeanu Benton is looking to assert himself further in his NFL career after a game-wrecking play against the Browns in Week 14, while Cameron Heyward continues to impress by defying the odds of aging.
Najee Harris vs. Eagles Defensive Line
Establishing a powerful ground game against an 8th-ranked run defense is a significant challenge, but one that running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren can conquer. With the Eagles likely focused on countering Russell Wilson’s passing game, they may inadvertently underestimate the potential impact of the ground attack.
Harris continues to prove why he deserved an extension with the Steelers during the offseason. His impressive performance on the field extends beyond just rushing; he also excels in the passing game. As a powerful runner, he will face challenging matchups against elite defensive ends Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis.
Mike Tomlin vs. Nick Sirianni
The sideline matchup to keep tabs on is the battle of the head coaches. Both are renowned for their bold and tactical game plans. Moreover, with both teams sitting at the top of their divisions, the victorious coach will not only claim bragging rights but also establish their team as the finest in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Steelers nation, we have perhaps two of the most aggressive coaches going up against each other. Regardless of the outcome, know that Mike Tomlin and the Steelers will fight fiercely. Here we go!