The Pittsburgh Steelers kick off the regular season on Sunday by taking on division rival Cincinnati Bengals. No one is giving the Steelers much of a shot to win but here are the four matchups we want to see because they will decide the outcome.
Bengals WRs vs Steelers CBs
This one could have just as easily been the Steelers wide receivers vs the Bengals cornerbacks. Both teams are stacked at wide receiver and are going to make life difficult for the opposing secondary. Pittsburgh’s defense is so dependent on the pass rush that if it isn’t working, guys like Cameron Sutton and Ahkello Witherspoon will have their work cut out for them against players like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Steelers OL vs Bengals DL
The Bengals have built one of the best all-around defensive lines in the AFC. Anchored by massive tackle D.J. Reader and B.J. Hill, they clog up run lanes while defensive ends Sam Hubbard and Trey Hendrickson harass quarterbacks. Meanwhile the Steelers offensive line looked lost at times in the preseason and get one of their biggest challenges of the season in Week One.
Bengals G Cordell Volson vs Steelers DT Cam Heyward
The Bengals named rookie Cordell Volson starting left guard for this week and he is going to get a trial by fire. Pittsburgh loves to slide defensive lineman Cam Heyward inside to rush the passer where he’s one of the best in the NFL. If I’m the Steeler coaches, I find as many ways as possible to get Heyward matched up on Volson.
Bengals RB Joe Mixon vs Steelers LB Myles Jack
Pittsburgh knew they had a problem stopping the run and tackling. Last season Joe Mixon rushed for 165 yards and two rushing scores on the Steelers in a 41-10 blowout win for Cincinnati. Enter Myles Jack in free agency. Jack is a missile on the field and plays with tremendous instincts and closing speed. If Pittsburgh wants to keep Mixon in check, Jack is going to have a big game.
