What to Make of the Steelers’ Victory Over the Chargers
Both the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Los Angeles Chargers entered this game undefeated through two games to open up the young NFL season. However, it would be only the Steelers that would be able to continue their winning ways as their defense shut down the Chargers enabling the Steelers to win 20-10. The Steelers now have a commanding lead in the AFC North as their rivals have gotten out to slow starts, while the Chargers fall behind the Chiefs in the race for the AFC West. However, what are the bigger takeaways from this game that can give us some insight as to how both these teams will fare this season?
Justin Fields Is the Focal Point of the Steelers’ Offense
Justin Fields has shown improvement each game as a starter for the Steelers. There should be no question that he should be the starter regardless of the health of Russell Wilson. The Steelers are committed to the running game and Fields’ dynamic ability with his legs helps to create space for this running game to succeed. However, in this game, it was all about Fields’ arm accuracy that allowed the Steelers to stay ahead of the chains and stay in control of this game. They do need to improve in the red zone as an offense but they have been able to move the ball fairly well to start the season with Justin Fields at the helm.
The Chargers’ Offense Is Very Dependent on Their Rushing Attack
J.K. Dobbins has been a revelation for this Chargers’ offense early in the season, but unfortunately, he couldn’t get going in this game. Through the first two games in the year, the Chargers’ offense was able to have one of the premier rushing attacks in the NFL, but the Steelers put a stop to that in this game. With the Steelers limiting the Chargers to only 61 rushing yards for the game, their passing attack as a result looked a lot more disjointed. This Jim Harbaugh offensive style relies on the rushing attack and offensive line to set up the passing game. However, the Steelers’ defense put a stop to that, allowing the Steelers to emerge victorious in this game.
The Steelers’ Defense Alone, May Get This Team to the Playoffs
Through three weeks, the Steelers have only allowed 26 total points to opponents. By allowing less than nine points per contest, the Steelers’ offense doesn't have to play too risky which results in great complimentary football. Although the modern football fan may enjoy watching high-scoring games, this Steelers team is built to win in a gritty and old-fashioned way. If the Steelers’ defense can continue to suffocate offenses, they could win a lot of games this season.
