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PITTSBURGH -- After a disappointing defeat to the New England Patriots in Week 2, the Pittsburgh Steelers are eager to get back on track when they welcome the Cincinnati Bengals to Acrisure Stadium in Week 3. The Steelers, still smarting from their trip to Foxborough, face a Bengals team that is off to a 2-0 start, adding intrigue to this AFC North clash.
Despite the challenges, there are reasons for optimism. Here are three key factors that could propel the Steelers to victory over their division rivals.
1. Dominant Outside Linebackers
Even in their Week 2 win over the Houston Texans, the Bengals showed vulnerabilities—most notably their ongoing struggle to protect quarterback Joe Burrow. Cincinnati allowed Burrow to be sacked five times, a concern that has plagued them since Burrow's arrival. While Houston boasts a formidable defensive front, the Steelers' pass rush is equally imposing and off to a torrid start.
Led by T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, the Steelers' edge rushers are in peak form. Watt has already racked up 3.5 sacks, with Highsmith close behind at 3.0. The defensive line's pressure, along with Nick Herbig's strong start, only amplifies the effectiveness of the top tandem. If they can maintain their blistering pace against Cincinnati, they could single-handedly secure a win for Pittsburgh.
2. Jaylen Warren's Opportunity
The Steelers' backfield has operated as a committee with Rico Dowdle and Jaylen Warren sharing carries. However, injuries may force the offense to lean more heavily on Warren. That could be a boon, as Warren typically thrives with increased touches. Despite limited opportunities, he has been productive, recording at least 60 scrimmage yards in each of the first two weeks.
If Dowdle, who missed the first practice of the week and was seen in a walking boot, is unable to play, Warren's role will expand. The more the Steelers rely on him, the more he is likely to produce.
3. Michael Pittman Jr.'s Return
The Steelers' passing attack struggled mightily in Week 2, missing veteran receiver Michael Pittman Jr. His absence was keenly felt, as the offense managed just one touchdown over two games. Pittman, who led the team in receiving yards in Week 1, proved why he is consistently near the 1,000-yard mark.
After sitting out Week 2, Pittman returned to practice on a limited basis. With top wideout DK Metcalf struggling, quarterback Aaron Rodgers desperately needs Pittman back on the field. If Pittman can play, he could provide the spark the offense needs to find its rhythm early in the season.
Jacob is a featured writer covering the Pittsburgh Steelers for Steelers On SI and the NHL for Breakaway On SI. He also co-hosts the All Steelers Talk podcast. Previous work covering the NHL for Inside the Penguins and The Hockey News. Follow Jake_Atsby.