Zielinski: Steelers have Packers number

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-3) have been one of the biggest surprises this season. Coach Mike Tomlin has never had a losing record in his first 16 years at the helm, and this season, it appears like that streak will continue.

Can the Packers stun the Steelers on the road on Sunday? The Packers (3-5) defeated the Los Angeles Rams last week, but they are in for a difficult road matchup against the Steelers.

The Steelers’ biggest strength is their defense, allowing 20.4 points per game. TJ Watt, a Pewaukee, Wisconsin native, is one of the best pass rushers in the game and should be in the MVP discussion, as he has 9.5 sacks in eight games this season.

On the opposite side, the Steelers offense is one of the worst in the NFL, averaging 16.6 points, 188 passing yards, and 90.5 rushing yards per game. Offensive coordinator Matt Canada has come under fire for the team’s poor execution and the lack of development of second-year QB Kenny Pickett.

Both teams feature lackluster offenses. The Packers have pieces and potential on the offensive side, but coach Matt LaFleur’s poor playcalling abilities have hindered their success. QB Jordan Love has the potential to be a talented quarterback and has displayed glimpses of that this season. Sunday’s game will come down to each team’s young quarterback late in crunch time.

The Packers have lost five straight games and have not won in Pittsburgh since 1970. That streak will continue on Sunday.

Prediction: Steelers 20, Packers 17