Three Matchups That Matter
Greg Olsen vs. Morgan Burnett
Greg Olsen has quietly been fantastic over the last nine quarters, settling back into the security-blanket role that he’s held so often from Cam Newton; Olsen has scored a touchdown in three consecutive weeks, including last week’s spectacular one-handed grab. If Burnett, or whichever Steeler is forced to handle Olsen up the seam, is able to take the tight end out of the game, that will limit options in the middle of the field, where Cam Newton has excelled thus far this season. Burnett missed time earlier this season with a groin injury, but appears to be fully healthy; he’ll be an important cog in this Steelers defense as they try to slow down the Panthers.
Chart Via NFL Next Gen Stats
James Washington vs. Captain Munnerlyn
While James Bradberry and Donte Jackson were able to limit DeSean Jackson and Mike Evans to paltry production last week against the Buccaneers, it left slot receiver Adam Humphries to catch eight passes for 82 yards and two scores; Captain Munnerlyn will need to be able to limit Washington, who will return to action after battling a knee injury, but it will be extremely important when the Steelers shift Juju Smith-Schuster into the slot that Munnerlyn is able to keep the powerful wideout in front of him and tackle him at the first point of contact – Smith-Schuster excels at YAC and Munnerlyn will need to be a sure tackler this week to limit him if the situation arises.
The Steelers like to do a “crack-and-replace” scheme, which forces cornerbacks to come up and tackle at the line of scrimmage, especially in the run game.
James Bradberry vs. Antonio Brown
Another in the long line of spectacular #1 wide receivers for Bradberry this week comes in the form of Antonio Brown, who has scored a touchdown in six straight games – it’s no surprise that the Steelers have won four consecutive. While Bradberry has handled Julio Jones, AJ Green, Mike Evans and other big wideouts this season, it has been smaller, shiftier players like Odell Beckham, Jr – who Bradberry compared Brown to – that gave Bradberry fits to the tune of eight catches for 131 yards and a score.
“Most of the guys that I go against in my division are bigger guys,” said Bradberry. “And he’s a smaller guy – very shifty, quick and also very crafty at the top end of the route and stuff like that. You’ve just got to prepare for him, watch film and attack him however you can. You just try to get your hands on him when you’re in man and then when you’re in zone, depend on your help underneath and make sure you take the top off.”
Two Burning Questions
Will Ryan Kalil Play?
The Panthers anchor in the center of their line hasn’t practiced all week – but he doesn’t necessarily need to; he’ll be the epitome of a game-time decision. One thing that makes it easier for the center of a line that has only allowed a sack on 4.55% of Cam Newton’s pass attempts is backup center Tyler Larsen, who started 10 games in relief of Kalil last season. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Kalil get the night off to keep him fresh for the rest of the season.
Which Team Will Get Pressure?
Both teams rank in the top five in terms of sacks allowed, who is able to make the opposing quarterback uncomfortable will likely have a huge impact on the game – look for Panthers defensive coordinator Eric Washington to send pressure if the front four isn’t able to get to Ben Roethlisberger – and even when you get to him, it doesn’t mean you’re going to bring him down.
“The play is never over with Big Ben,” said Cam Newton. Both 6-5 quarterbacks are tough to bring down – which defense is able to get them on the ground might just be the key to a victory.
One Bold Prediction
Greg Olsen needs 145 yards to pass Jackie Smith for seventh all-time among tight ends in receiving yardage. He doesn’t quite get there, but I predict he gets over 100 and his fourth straight game with a score. Book it.
