Pittsburgh Steelers at St. Louis Rams: Week 3 Prediction

This normally isn’t a matchup that happens often or draws much intrigue, but the St. Louis Rams and Pittsburgh Steelers are still two interesting teams with a lot to play for in this game. Who comes out with the much-needed win?

Injuries

Todd Gurley inching closer to debut

St. Louis fans are anxiously awaiting the arrival of 1st round pick Todd Gurley, whom many view as the most talented running back to come out of college since Adrian Peterson. While he will likely be on a touches cap, there is a chance he could finally debut in this game if the knee checks out.

Ryan Shazier bowing out with shoulder problem

Validation was coming through in a big way for the Steelers taking linebacker Ryan Shazier in the draft a year ago. In just two games he had amassed 22 tackles, a sack and a forced fumble. Unfortunately his momentum will slacken a bit as he tries to recover from a shoulder injury that will keep him out Sunday.

Key Matchups

Janoris Jenkins vs. Antonio Brown

It’s becoming harder and harder to argue against the fact that Antonio Brown might be the best wide receiver in football. Stopping his is next to impossible but it’s something the Rams defense must try to accomplish. Janoris Jenkins

Jared Cook vs. Lawrence Timmons

As a whole the Steelers defense is having problems against the pass, but one area they’ve struggled most is against tight ends. Rob Gronkowski victimized them on opening night and Vernon Davis popped a big play as well. Underrated Jared Cook is up next, who can be dangerous if not taken seriously. With Shazier out, it will be up to Lawrence Timmons and the other linebackers to meet this challenge.

Fantasy

Sit: Rams defense

St. Louis has an outstand defensive front and good back seven but this unit has looked less than dominant through two weeks and now they prepare to face a Steelers offense that is positively loaded at every position with a triggerman in Ben Roethlisberger who is a nightmare even when he’s pressured.

Start: Le’Veon Bell

What a perfect matchup for Le’Veon Bell to make his return. The Pro Bowl running back is the main cog of that Steelers attack and he’ll be seeing a Rams defense that ranks 30th in the NFL against the run, allowing a whopping 153 yards per game. Fresh, health and eager to get back don’t be surprised if Bell goes off right away.

Prediction: Steelers win 34-24

This is a simple case of bad matchups. Pittsburgh has a balanced and dangerous offensive attack and now get a key player back in Bell. That added ability to run the ball will put too much stress on the Rams defense and Nick Foles won’t be able to keep pace on the offensive side.

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