No one circles the wagons like the Pittsburgh Steelers, right? Eh, maybe not. But if the Steelers were ever going to rally it is this weekend when they take on San Francisco 49ers. The Steelers are 0-2 and one more loss would all but eliminate them from playoff contention.
But hope is not lost. Here are three reasons the Steelers can beat the 49ers this weekend.
Upgraded defense
Pittsburgh made a huge move the same day they put quarterback Ben Roethlisberger on IR. The Steelers made a huge trade including their 2020 first-round pick in exchange for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. In addition, with Vince Williams out for the game, Pittsburgh will get a full game out of linebacker Devin Bush. These two guys really up the ante on the athleticism on this unit.
The offensive line steps up
After two average performances, there’s no better week for the Steelers offensive line to finally play like one of the best units in the NFL. The Steelers coaches have to be focused on stepping up the run game this week and it will all depend on the big guys up front.
A cornered animal is a dangerous one
The Steelers are in full “back against the wall” mode at this point. the odds of making the playoffs falls to nearly zero if they start the season 0-3. The 49ers are riding high at 2-0 and could see a team with a backup quarterback under center and take them for granted. No one should be shocked if San Francisco comes in a little complacent and a hyped-up Steelers team steals a win.
