The Pittsburgh Steelers (3-0) aim to strengthen their position at the top of the AFC North as they prepare to take on the Indianapolis Colts (1-2) this Sunday afternoon. The matchup is set for Lucas Oil Stadium, kicking off at 1 PM ET.
The Steelers recently celebrated a 20-10 victory over the Chargers, successfully covering the spread as 2.5-point favorites. Meanwhile, the Colts secured their first win of the season with a close 21-16 triumph against the Bears, also as 1.5-point favorites.
Historically, Pittsburgh has dominated this rivalry, boasting an 8-2 record in their last ten encounters with Indianapolis. However, the Colts managed to claim victory in their last meeting, winning decisively 30-13 last season.
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Steelers Seeking Fourth Straight Win
The Steelers have surprised many with their strong start to the season, clinching wins against Atlanta, Denver, and Los Angeles, two of which were on the road. A win against the Colts would mark their fourth consecutive victory overall and their third straight on the road.
Pittsburgh’s offense currently averages only 17 points per game. They have recorded 158.3 passing yards and 130.7 rushing yards per game. Fortunately, their defense is a standout, leading the NFL in yards allowed (229), ranking fifth in passing yards allowed (157.7 yards per game), and third in rushing yards allowed (71.3 yards per game).
In their latest victory against the Chargers, quarterback Justin Fields completed 78 percent of his passes, totaling 125 yards and one touchdown, while also adding six rushing yards and another touchdown. Running back Najee Harris contributed 70 yards on 18 carries, and wide receiver Calvin Austin III made four catches for 95 yards.
Through three weeks, Pittsburgh holds the title of the best defensive team in the league, limiting opponents to an average of just 8.7 points per game. They allowed only ten points in their last outing, a trend they will need to maintain for continued success.
Injury Report: Quarterback Russell Wilson (calf), tight end MyCole Pruitt (knee), and guard Isaac Seumalo (pectoral) are questionable for the game. Running back Jaylen Warren (knee) is listed as doubtful.
Colts Aiming for Back-to-Back Victories
After starting the season with losses to Houston and Green Bay, the Colts bounced back with a victory over Chicago, aiming for their second consecutive win against Pittsburgh.
Indianapolis currently averages 19.3 points per game, generating 184.3 passing yards and 131.3 rushing yards per game.
In their recent win against the Bears, quarterback Anthony Richardson completed 50 percent of his passes, accumulating 167 yards but also throwing two interceptions. He added eight carries for 24 yards. Running back Jonathan Taylor shone with 110 yards on 23 carries and two touchdowns, while wide receiver Alec Pierce had one catch for 44 yards. This season, Richardson has struggled with a 49.3% completion rate, tallying 583 passing yards, three touchdowns, and six interceptions, along with 117 rushing yards and one rushing score.
Defensively, Indianapolis has allowed an average of 20.3 points per game. They limited Chicago to 16 points in their last contest and will need a similar performance against the Steelers. However, they rank near the bottom of the league, allowing 398.3 yards per game (31st) and 179 rushing yards (32nd), indicating they often give up significant yardage.
Injury Report: Cornerback Kenny Moore II (undisclosed), guard Braden Smith (undisclosed), cornerback Chris Lammons (undisclosed), and defensive end Kwity Paye (undisclosed) are questionable for this matchup.
Smart Betting Insights for Steelers vs. Colts
The Steelers are riding a three-game winning streak, while the Colts have struggled, losing two out of their three games. Although Indianapolis has shown some offensive prowess, the Steelers hold the advantage with their strong running game, which should exploit the Colts’ weaknesses against the run. Pittsburgh’s ability to throw effectively against Indianapolis’ secondary, which has also had difficulties, adds to their edge.
The Colts, on the other hand, may struggle offensively, given their inconsistent passing game and a running attack that likely won’t find success against Pittsburgh’s formidable defense, which is allowing fewer than 75 rushing yards per game. Additionally, Richardson’s tendency to throw interceptions could be problematic, as he has six in three games. With the Steelers applying consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks and averaging two takeaways on the road, they are poised to stifle the Colts’ offense effectively. Expect Pittsburgh to cover the spread in this matchup.
