Pittsburgh Steelers – Green Bay Packers
USA - NFL ,Round 10
12/11/2023 - 19:00 CET
The Pittsburgh Steelers managed to defeat the Tennessee Titans last week, improving their record to 5-3. Some might argue that they may not deserve this record, as in victories against the Baltimore Ravens, Los Angeles Rams, and Cleveland Browns, they were the weaker team on the field. However, it only confirms that this team never gives up and fights until the end regardless of the odds. That has been the DNA of the Steelers, especially in the last 16 years since Mike Tomlin became the head coach. The team's defense is typically excellent, and this season is no exception. They may not dominate as before, but they get the job done. The issue lies in the offense and poorly designed plays, for which offensive coordinator Matt Canada is the main culprit. With the return of wide receiver Diontae Johnson, quarterback Kenny Pickett has another weapon, and super-talented George Pickens should get more opportunities, despite expressing dissatisfaction in the last game due to a low number of targets.
The Green Bay Packers broke a four-game losing streak last week, but they were fortunate as the Los Angeles Rams played without starting quarterback Matthew Stafford. The Packers' defense demolished backup quarterback Brett Rypien, who was waived after that game. Regarding this upcoming game, there's a big chance that the Packers' defense will be significantly weakened. Jaire Alexander and Quay Walker did not practice the entire week, and if neither of them is on the field on Sunday, Steelers' wide receivers will have plenty of room to shine. As for the Packers' offense, it has been poor throughout the season. Quarterback Jordan Love stood out only in the first two games, and everything afterward was bad. If he doesn't improve soon, this could be the only season in his career as a starter, not just with the Packers but with any team.
Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh is one of the toughest places to play. The home crowd always extracts the maximum from the Steelers, as seen several times this season. They found a way to defeat teams like the Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns, and Tennessee Titans at home, all of which are several levels above the Green Bay Packers. It will be crucial for the Steelers that Pickett avoids rookie mistakes because there is no doubt that Johnson and Pickens will create a lot of separation, opening up space for a significant number of yards. T.J. Watt and the Steelers' defense have proven themselves against much better offenses and quarterbacks than Love, making this a treat for them. Also, the Steelers are aware of the competition in the AFC and recognize that winning this game is a must for their playoff aspirations. On the other hand, the Packers can hardly expect a postseason appearance, even if they somehow pull off a surprise here.