The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers this Sunday Night Football. The outcome of this game could significantly impact the AFC playoff standings. Should the Steelers win, they will solidify their position at the top of the AFC North. In contrast, the Chargers are in dire need of a victory to stay competitive in the AFC West race, trailing the Denver Broncos.
Focus on Resurgent Chargers Star Keenan Allen
One key element for the Steelers to address is the performance of Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen. His return to the Chargers this offseason has sparked a resurgence that the Steelers must deal with. At 33 years old, Allen has defied expectations, contributing significantly to the Chargers’ offense.
Allen’s Impact on the Game
- Leads the Chargers with 75 targets and 50 receptions.
- Has amassed 516 receiving yards, just four yards shy of teammate Ladd McConkey.
- Recorded significant performances against the Steelers in past matchups, including a standout game in 2018.
Keenan Allen has reclaimed his status as the go-to target for quarterback Justin Herbert on crucial third downs. Out of his 50 receptions, he has converted 33 of them into first downs. This places significant pressure on the Steelers’ defense and their coordinator, Teryl Austin, who must devise a strategy to contain him.
Challenges for the Steelers’ Defense
The Steelers have faced difficulties defending against quick passes, as highlighted in their previous game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Their propensity to blitz has created vulnerabilities in their secondary. However, recent adjustments in their defensive strategy were evident in their win over the Indianapolis Colts.
To effectively manage Allen and the Chargers’ explosive offense, the Steelers can focus on the following:
- Pressure Herbert with a four-man rush while deploying seven players in coverage.
- Limit Allen’s opportunities on third downs to prevent conversions.
- Minimize the effectiveness of the Chargers’ quick passing game by tightening coverage.
If the Steelers cannot contain Keenan Allen, especially during critical third-down situations, they may find themselves facing another challenging outing for their defense. The stakes are high, and both teams will be vying for a crucial win as they aim for playoff aspirations in the AFC.
