The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for an exciting inter-conference clash against the Atlanta Falcons in Hotlanta this Sunday afternoon. Both teams are entering the season with new quarterbacks, aiming to make their mark in the league. The Steelers concluded the 2023 regular season with a respectable 10-7 record, securing a wild-card spot but facing a disappointing exit after a 31-17 loss to Buffalo in the AFC Wild Card Round. Meanwhile, the Falcons finished their campaign with a 7-10 record, placing third in the NFC South and missing the playoffs for the sixth consecutive year. Historically, the Steelers have dominated the matchup, leading the all-time series 15-2-1 and winning the last four encounters, including a narrow 19-16 victory at home on December 4, 2022.
Pittsburgh’s Quest for a Fresh Start
Pittsburgh has maintained a streak of finishing at least .500, but they are eager to return to the postseason and capture their first playoff victory since 2016. This year marks a significant shift as all three quarterbacks from the previous season—Kenny Pickett, Mason Rudolph, and Mitch Trubisky—are no longer with the team. The Steelers have signed Russell Wilson after his departure from Denver and traded for Justin Fields from the Bears, creating a competitive atmosphere for the starting quarterback position. While most offseason acquisitions have focused on strengthening the defense, they have retained seven offensive and nine defensive starters from last year, building a solid foundation for the new season.
The team’s passing game struggled in 2023, ranking 25th in the league with an average of 186.1 yards per game. However, they excelled in rushing, finishing 13th with an average of 118.2 yards per contest. The Steelers were 28th in scoring, averaging just 17.9 points per game, but their defense stood strong, allowing only 19.1 points per game and ranking 6th overall. Wilson, who passed for 3,070 yards with 26 touchdowns last season, is now at the helm, supported by Fields as a promising backup. The ground attack will rely on Najee Harris, who rushed for over 1,000 yards, and the receiving corps includes George Pickens and Pat Freiermuth among others.
Unfortunately, injuries are a concern. Center Nate Herbig is on injured reserve, and tight end Darnell Washington missed practice due to a knee issue. Other players, such as Logan Lee and Isaac Seumalo, have also been unavailable for practice. With Wilson limited due to a calf injury, updates will be crucial as kickoff approaches.
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Atlanta Aiming for a Competitive Edge
The Falcons are looking to break free from their pattern of losing seasons, having ended last year with a 7-10 record. After the season, they made significant changes, including firing head coach Arthur Smith and hiring Raheem Morris, the former Rams defensive coordinator. The team boasts a wealth of experience, retaining nine offensive starters and eight defensive starters, which could bode well for their performance. Recent signings, such as quarterback Kirk Cousins from Minnesota and the first-round draft pick Michael Penix Jr. from Washington, aim to enhance the Falcons’ offensive capabilities. Additionally, linebacker Matthew Judon and safety Justin Simmons have joined the squad to strengthen the defense.
In 2023, Atlanta’s passing game ranked 22nd, averaging 207.3 yards per game, while their rushing attack was more effective, finishing 9th with an average of 127 yards per game. The team struggled to score, placing 26th in the league with an average of 18.9 points per game, while their defense allowed 21.9 points on average, ranking 18th. Cousins, who had a solid season before his injury, will lead the offense, supported by promising talents like Bijan Robinson and tight end Kyle Pitts, who are expected to make an impact.
Injury updates for Atlanta indicate that linebacker Nate Landman is dealing with a quad issue, while cornerback Antonio Hamilton has been limited by a groin injury. Pitts was also limited due to a hamstring issue but has returned to full practice. Keeping an eye on these developments will be important leading up to the game.
Betting Insights for Steelers vs. Falcons
With both teams introducing several new players this season, the opening game promises to be intriguing. Atlanta retains most of its offensive skill players, suggesting potential improvement under Cousins’ leadership. Conversely, Pittsburgh is adjusting to Wilson’s injury and determining their receiving hierarchy beyond Pickens. Despite a strong defense, the Steelers’ offense remains a work in progress, paired with the challenge of playing away from home. As a result, the prediction leans towards the Falcons securing a victory in this matchup.
