3 Reasons Steelers Should be Concerned About Patriots

Make no mistake, head coach Mike Vrabel will remember the disaster that was the Patriots’ offensive line last year. The Steelers took their lunch money in last year’s matchup, and it will be tough sledding for New England again this year. However, expect the Patriots to have a plan to combat Pittsburgh’s pass rush.

Josh McDaniels is one of the best offensive coordinators in the NFL. If there’s one defense he has historically combated effectively, it is Pittsburgh’s. However, he will be facing a former colleague in Patrick Graham. The two worked under Bill Belichick for years, and Graham may have some insight into McDaniels’ approach. McDaniels will probably have similar insight into Graham’s tendencies.

New England will likely call plenty of pressure counters, including quick throws, screens, and misdirection. The Patriots know Pittsburgh will look to pressure the quarterback, so they will need ways to punish the Steelers for bringing extra defenders.

Christian Gonzalez Will Change The Outlook of Patriots Defense

Gonzalez will be a key component of this game. He missed last year’s Week 3 matchup, but he will be ready this year after signing a four-year, $135 million deal. Vrabel is also a disciple of the Belichick defensive coaching tree, and he could use Gonzalez in a way that keeps the Steelers on their heels.

Gonzalez could shadow DK Metcalf or Michael Pittman Jr., with the other receiver receiving additional attention from the Patriots’ defense. Last year, Metcalf was almost exclusively double-teamed, but the Steelers had a limited arsenal to combat it. This season is a bit different, but Gonzalez is a cornerback rising into the top five at his position.

He could be the difference in this year’s contest after the Patriots came up short against the Steelers last year.

Steelers Lack an Effective Running Game

The biggest concern for the Steelers is their lack of an effective ground game. They don’t need to become an Arthur Smith spam-running team, but having a rushing attack that defenses need to respect is critical. If the Patriots aren’t afraid of the Steelers’ running game, they will be able to dictate what Pittsburgh has to do on offense. That is a disaster in the making.

New England minimized the Steelers’ ground attack last year and will be in a good position to do the same this season. Pittsburgh needs to generate enough rushing yards to at least keep the Patriots’ defense honest.

Otherwise, it could be an even longer day in New England for the Steelers’ offense.