Steelers at Bills
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park, New York
TV: CBS
Tipico line: Bills by 6 1⁄2 Steelers’ keys to victory: Pittsburgh has to figure out a way to stop Bills QB Josh Allen, whether via the pass rush, led by DE T.J. Watt, or the secondary shutting down Buffalo’s playmakers. Offensively, rookie RB Najee Harris has to be ready. The Bills infused talent into their defensive line and have DT Star Lotulelei back in the fold; he opted out of the 2020 season with COVID-19 concerns. But Buffalo is still susceptible on the ground, allowing nearly 120 rushing yards per game last season. That could keep Allen off the field.
Bills’ keys to victory: Regardless of opponent – in this case, a solid Steelers defense – Buffalo is going to come out throwing. The Bills will look to get the ball to WR Stefon Diggs plenty. In last year’s 10-3 win against Pittsburgh in Week 14, the Bills’ No. 1 wideout had 10 catches for 130 yards and a score. Defensively, Buffalo’s line will be important, and the No. 2 cornerback will likely be Levi Wallace again. Ben Roethlisberger will be under center for his 18th season, and targeting Wallace will be his best bet to show he still has it.
Matchup to watch: Steelers DE Watt vs. Bills OT Dion Dawkins: The Bills’ franchise left tackle missed a large chunk of the offseason due to a scary battle with the coronavirus, and he’s been trying to get back into football shape quickly. Watt, who had an NFLbest 15 sacks last season, is going to test him all game.
Who wins? The Bills are 2-0 against the Steelers these past two seasons and are bringing back much of the same team. Doing so will make a big difference.
Bills, 27-20