The Indianapolis Colts avoided falling to 0-3 last Sunday with a win over the Chicago Bears. Led by a strong defensive performance, especially against the run, and Jonathan Taylor on offense, the Colts jumped out to an early lead and held on for the duration of the game.
Now, the big question is, can they find that kind of success again? The 3-0 Pittsburgh Steelers will present a challenge for the Colts in both phases of the game behind a very stingy run defense and a run-heavy offense.
Let’s get to know the Colts’ Week 4 opponent with a closer look at this Steelers team:
Last week: Steelers win 20-10 over Chargers
The Pittsburgh defense was dominant in this matchup, not only holding the Chargers to 10 points, but Justin Herbert threw for just 125 yards, and the Los Angeles offense as a whole averaged just 3.7 yards per play. For some context, over the course of three games this season, 3.7 yards per play would rank last in the NFL. Pittsburgh was able to generate five sacks and seven tackles for loss.
On the flip side, Steelers quarterback Justin Fields was extremely efficient, completing 25-of-32 passes for 245 yards with a touchdown and an interception, while the Steelers continued to lean heavily on the run game, rushing the ball 31 times for 114 yards.
Quarterback play
Russell Wilson suffered a calf injury just before the Steelers season opener, making Fields the starter, and he has capitalized on the opportunity. He appears very much in control of the offense and confident in what he’s being asked to do.
Fields has completed 73 percent of his throws through three games for 517 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. He’s taking advantage of short area throws, ranking third in shortest average depth per target (ADOT) and this is a run-heavy Steelers offense, averaging the second-most rush attempts per game. That combination is helping to keep the offense ahead of the sticks and control the time of possession.
Line of scrimmage
The Colts’ offensive line has been a top unit in football this season, but this group will be tested by the Steelers front, especially as they deal with injuries with Ryan Kelly and Braden Smith both questionable. Pittsburgh’s front is allowing the second-fewest yards per rush and they rank ninth in pressure rate.
The Steelers will be without Alex Highsmith at edge rusher, but of course, still have TJ Watt and Cam Heyward inside. It won’t always come easy, but the Colts have to remain committed on the ground.
On the other side of the ball, the Steelers rushing offense is averaging only 3.6 yards per carry behind Najee Harris, but speaking of committed, this is an extremely committed team to the run game. The Steelers rank second in average rush attempts per game and therefore, 12th in rushing yards.
Success for the Colts defense starts here. They have to keep the Steelers offense behind the sticks as often as they can, which will give the pass rush added opportunities.
Turnovers
The Steelers are ranked fourth in turnover differential this season at plus-four. The defense has generated five takeaways, tied for the fourth-most, and the offense has taken care of the football, with Fields throwing only one interception. The Colts ability to win the turnover battle against Chicago was a key factor in them coming away with the win.
Injury situation
As already mentioned, the Steelers will be without Alex Highsmith. Backup running back Jaylen Warren has also been ruled out already as well. Russell Wilson and tight end MyCole Pruitt are both questionable and guard Isaac Seumalo is doubtful. For more, click here.
Stats to know
I’ve already alluded to it, but this game will be defined by the running game for the Colts–both in how well they get it going on offense and in their ability to stop Pittsburgh. The Steelers are allowing the second-fewest yards per rush, while on offense, they rank second in rush attempts and 12th in rushing yards per game.
Players to know
RB Najee Harris: Without Warren, Harris’ already hefty workload will likely increase at least somewhat. Harris is averaging 3.8 yards per rush, he ranks sixth in rush attempts, 12th in missed tackles forced, and 16th in yards after contact.
WR George Pickens: The Steelers leading receiver is Pickens, who has 13 receptions for 171 yards. Also keep your eyes on tight end Pat Freiermuth, who is also a go-to target of Fields.
TJ Watt and Cameron Heyward: We all know how disruptive Watt can be–in short, he brings game-wrecking potential each week and has to be accounted for on every play. Not to be forgotten about inside is Heyward, who has played a key role again in the Steelers success against the run.
S Minkah Fitzpatrick: The Colts success in the passing game has often come on downfield attempts. Patrolling the back-end of the secondary for Pittsburgh is Fitzpatrick, who Anthony Richardson will have to be mindful of.
