Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots: Week 1 Prediction

Nov 3, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) throws a pass against the New England Patriots in the in the second half at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Steelers 55-31. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

It’s a classic AFC rivalry on tap for the first game of the 2015 NFL season as the New England Patriots prepare to defend their crown. Among the biggest challengers will be the Pittsburgh Steelers, who visit Foxborough in hopes of getting off to a great start. So who win this Thursday Night Kickoff?

Injury News

Patriots center Bryan Stork out with a concussion

Interior blocking has remained a sore spot for the Patriots even dating back to last season. One of the guys that was able to help curb it was Bryan Stork at center. Now he is down for the count with a serious concussion, forcing Tom Brady to get acquainted with a replacement awfully fast.

Le’Veon Bell and Martavis Bryant start suspensions

Two key pieces to the Pittsburgh offense won’t be available due to NFL suspensions in running back Le’Veon Bell and wide receiver Martavis Bryant. This should sap that offense of some of its diversity and explosiveness. Depth will be tested early on whether or not they can adjust.

Key Matchups

Antonio Brown vs. Malcolm Butler

It’s not Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner anymore. New England has a host of new faces in their secondary. Among them is Super Bowl hero Malcolm Butler, who is expected to get his first start as a pro. It’s a far cry from Ricardo Lockett he’ll be facing as All-Pro Antonio Brown will be the assignment. It could be an ugly evening if Butler doesn’t show up.

Lawrence Timmons and LBs vs. Rob Gronkowski

The Steelers made a bold statement when they felt they could cover Pro Bowl tight end Rob Gronkowski and limit his effectiveness. That responsibility will fall to their linebackers, led by Lawrence Timmons who have some speed and athleticism. Not only must they contain Gronk in coverage but also deal with him as a blocker as well.

X-Factors

Steelers rushing attack without Bell

One of the bigger concerns around the Steelers offense was the depth behind Le’Veon Bell at running back. Last year, they were a different team without him on the field. Are De’Angelo Williams and Dri Archer up to the challenge or will the suspension and injury to Maurkice Pouncey loom large in this game?

Brady against Steelers secondary

Losing Stork up front was hard enough but now veteran receiver Reggie Wayne leaving and Brandon LaFell going on the PUP list limits the options Tom Brady will have through the air. Heaven forbid Gronkowski or Danny Amendola go down. Brady faces a secondary that is in transition, which could offer an advantage but does he have the pieces to do so?

Prediction: Steelers win 27-21

Next: NFL Team Predictions: The Kansas City Chiefs

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