Steelers (2-1) at Texans (1-2)
Sunday, 1 p.m. EDT, NRG Stadium, Houston
TV: CBS
Spread (BetMGM):
Steelers by 3
Steelers’ keys to victory: Pittsburgh should start with giving QB Kenny Pickett easy completions to steady his confidence going against a formidable pass rush. RB Najee Harris needs to be a key part of helping keep the Steelers on schedule and diverse in approach. WR George Pickens should figure to be a part of Pittsburgh’s plans to drive the ball against a makeshift secondary. All three players contributed to a Week 3 win at Las Vegas, especially Pickett (2 TDs).
Texans’ keys to victory: The deep ball to rookie WR Tank Dell has proved to be a viable option, and Houston should mix up such shots with intermediate targets for WR Nico Collins. Rookie QB C.J. Stroud has been diligent spreading the ball around, but the run game still has yet to be a complementary presence. With Houston’s offensive line issues, setting up the run with the pass should be the way to go until at least LT Laremy Tunsil (knee injury) is back in the lineup. DE Will Anderson has been impactful on defense and special teams and must make a play somewhere.
Matchup to watch: Steelers OLB T.J. Watt vs. Texans’ offensive tackles. Whether it’s Josh Jones or George Fant, Watt will be going against Houston’s second string, which should afford him opportunities to flummox Stroud and possibly procure takeaways.
Who wins? Emotions will be high as franchise legend J.J. Watt is inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor. However, his little brother will want to spoil his day. The Texans are young, while the Steelers have enough experience to win.
Steelers 27-23