The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up to host the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday for their highly anticipated home opener. Both teams enter the matchup with 2-0 records, yet many pundits have labeled them as pretenders rather than true contenders. Regardless, each team is led by respected head coaches known for their strategic acumen.
This game promises to be a fierce battle won in the trenches. Both the Steelers and Chargers possess the personnel to dominate the ground game, making it essential to control the clock and dictate the pace. The outcome may very well hinge on which team can establish a stronger rushing attack, as the winner of this battle is likely to secure victory. Steelers fans are buzzing with excitement, eager to support their team at Acrisure Stadium for the first time in the 2024 season.
Justin Fields is expected to earn another start, aiming to notch his third consecutive win. Ahead of the game, Chargers star Joey Bosa appeared on the Green Light Podcast with former NFL defensive end Chris Long, where he candidly discussed the challenges posed by running quarterbacks. Bosa acknowledged that mobile quarterbacks have been a source of frustration for him, hinting at the specific strategies he may employ to contain Fields.
"He is not small. Me and and K-Mack (Khalil Mack) were laughing earlier in the meetings that we need to go back to pocket passer, standing-in-the-pocket-QB era, 'cause we're getting sick of chasing these guys all over the place," Bosa said of Fields.
The Chargers boast a formidable defense, having surrendered just 13 points over their first two games. Meanwhile, the Steelers aren't far behind, allowing only 16 points. This matchup features a clash between two of the league's top defenses, each equipped with strikingly similar offensive schemes.
Bosa expressed his frustrations about facing a mobile quarterback, noting how challenging it can be for him and the Chargers defense to account for their agility. This added layer of difficulty makes for an intriguing dynamic as both teams prepare for battle.
"Kind of feel like a broken record every week. It's like, 'What do you need to do?' And it's rush the passer, but not let him affect you on his feet, getting out of the pocket, making those crazy throws. He is a great athlete. Like, he is 6-3, 6-4, big dude. So, it's not like you're gonna be able to just like, tackle him or slap at his legs and get him down."
Bosa revealed how the Chargers plan to shut down Fields on Sunday.
"But it's a big emphasis this week to just focus on rushing together as four or five up front and trying to affect him. Get your hands up, but just trying to keep him in the pocket."
Fields has the ability to excel on the ground as a rusher, having carried the ball 22 times for 84 yards in just two games. Steelers Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith has implemented intriguing game plans in this new system with fresh personnel, but it has taken time for the Steelers to gel. They are still working on finding ways to sustain drives and increase their touchdown production.
On Sunday, Fields faces another significant challenge against the Chargers’ defense. If he can deliver a strong performance and secure a win in front of the home crowd, his stock is likely to rise even further. Conversely, a loss could stifle the excitement surrounding him.
Steelers' Justin Fields Likely To Frustrate The Chargers On Sunday
So far, Fields has met expectations in the first two games, but this matchup offers another crucial opportunity to prove himself. Bosa has acknowledged that mobile quarterbacks can be particularly frustrating to defend, which could play to Fields’ advantage.
If Smith unleashes Fields as a rusher, the Steelers could effectively challenge the Chargers' defense throughout the game. Steeler Nation is excited to watch Bosa chase Fields all over the field.
