At this point, the Pittsburgh Steelers take nothing for granted when it comes to the outcome of games. Despite taking on a 3-4 Tennessee Titans team in prime time and going against a rookie quarterback, there’s always a chance that all those things working in Pittsburgh’s favor just fall apart. Here are our keys to victory for the Steelers this week.
Contain the Titans run game
Running back Derrick Henry has been the powerhouse of the Titans backfield for what seems like forever. This season, Henry has some help with rookie Tyjae Spears who brings some real explosion to the rushing attack. If the Steelers have a prayer of beating the Titans, they cannot let these two just run all over them.
Protect Kenny Pickett
We are genuinely concerned about the health of Kenny Pickett and if he can do all the things he needs to do on the field. Job one of the Steelers offensive line is to keep Pickett clean and upright. Don’t allow him to take any big hits.
Communication in the secondary
Without Minkah Fitzpatrick in the defensive secondary, there has to be solid communication and that means veteran Patrick Peterson steps up as the senior member of the secondary and we expect to see him at safety a lot more.
Start fast
It feels like a broken record but we say it every week. Despite head coach Mike Tomlin trying to convince everyone that how to start games doesn’t determine the outcome, everyone else knows better. Constantly playing from behind is completely unsustainable.
