The Falcons have three big names who can take over a game at any moment: Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Bijan Robinson. All three cashed in with Atlanta this offseason, and for good reason. The only thing arguably keeping the Falcons from becoming an elite offense is the quarterback position. However, it remains to be seen whether Tua Tagovailoa or Michael Penix Jr. can provide the answer.

Pittsburgh will have its hands full on Sunday. The Steelers secondary will need to prove it can handle the challenge and find ways to minimize this talented trio. Of the three, Robinson’s impact could prove the most lethal.

Falcons Secondary

Atlanta’s secondary is for real. The Falcons have studs at cornerback and an elite safety duo. If Atlanta had its top two pass rushers available, we would be talking about this defense as an elite unit. That is how good this defense can be. However, the Falcons’ front seven now looks a bit more vulnerable with their top EDGE defenders unavailable.

That doesn’t change the fact that Atlanta’s secondary can eliminate premier weapons and disrupt an offense. Expect the Steelers to work underneath this week with their running backs and tight ends. If Pittsburgh can consistently move the chains that way, it could eventually open things up down the field.

Stefanski Knows the Steelers Personnel

It doesn’t help that Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski knows the Steelers all too well. He also brought several members of his Cleveland coaching staff with him to Atlanta. That doesn’t mean this version of the Steelers will be easy for him to read, but he does have an advantage. Stefanski knows many of these players, their tendencies, and what to expect when facing Pittsburgh.

Will that familiarity provide a significant advantage? That remains to be seen. Still, it is something worth keeping in mind heading into this battle.

Week 1 Unknowns

As always, plenty of unknowns surround the NFL’s opening week, especially with both the Steelers and Falcons entering the season with new coaching staffs. A number of things could go right or wrong for either team. Once the ball is kicked off Sunday, all bets are off.

The Steelers will usher in the Mike McCarthy era, while the Falcons begin the Stefanski era. This game could very well set the tone for Pittsburgh’s season, regardless of the outcome.