Is this a new “Steel Curtain” beginning? After the Pittsburgh Steelers allowed just 16 points in the first two weeks, the debate is still open despite being a bit theatrical. There has only been a single touchdown against the Pittsburgh defense.
For a Los Angeles Chargers club that has quarterback concerns this week, that is a challenging order. Due to a high ankle injury he had during Week 2 of the season, Justin Herbert was labeled as questionable on Friday; but, there is apparently hope that he will play in this one. Strangely enough, though, Jim Harbaugh, who takes his Los Angeles Chargers into the Steel City on Sunday, might find that a defensive struggle is exactly what sparks his creativity.
Although both sides are 2-0, the Steelers are marginal favorites. The announcement of Herbert’s revelation shifted the odds significantly in Pittsburgh’s favor. Harbaugh relishes a defensive struggle that takes place in the trenches, and if he can consistently get his quarterback into the red zone, he will not hesitate to win a game that is ultimately determined by the placekicker’s toes.
If any group of people can support a defense-first, low-scoring squad, it is the friendly people of Pittsburgh. However, this squad has not won trophies in this manner since the 1970s, when professional football was very different. One day, Justin Fields or another quarterback for the Steelers will have to pass the ball in order to score six points at a time. Pittsburgh has kicked eight field goals (!) this season compared to just one touchdown.
Here is where we would enumerate the offensive weapons that the Steelers currently have on the roster in the preview. But of all the NFL teams this season, Pittsburgh has the fewest offensive snaps and dropbacks. It is evident that Mike Tomlin enjoys winning despite being “ugly,” and in Pittsburgh, ugly combined with dominant defense is beautiful.
Does Harbaugh have any magic? He has a fourth-year player who leads the NFL in rushing but only has 10 starts going into this season. J.K. Dobbins, a strong back who leads the team in forced missed tackles, is that man.
One of the most exciting games of Week 3 features these two teams—who do not mind scoring three points at a time, want to chew up the clock, and like to thrust the ball in the face of the opposition.
Los Angeles Chargers at Pittsburgh Steelers odds
How to watch Chargers vs. Steelers
- Venue: Acrisure Stadium — Pittsburgh
- Time: 1 p.m. ET, Sunday
- TV: CBS
- Streaming: Fubo (try for free)
Expert picks for Chargers vs. Steelers
Read more about NFL Week 3
Playoff forecasts: The field is predicted by the Athletic model.
Week 3’s best bets include backing the Patriots, fading Malik Willis once more, and more.
Which 0–2 teams ought to be alarmed? Model predicts Ravens, Bengals, and other teams’ prospects of making the playoffs.
(Photo of Najee Harris: Ron Chenoy / Imagn Images)
