2016 NFL Season: Picking The Week One Winners
By Erik Lambert
Pittsburgh Steelers at Washington Redskins
This is an under-the-radar game that features a fascinating setup. The Washington Redskins were a playoff team last season but got there by beating up on bad teams. Until they start beating good teams, nobody will take them seriously. Of course the Pittsburgh Steelers represent the perfect test. It starts with finding an answer for Antonio Brown, something that hasn’t happened yet. At the same time Kirk Cousins is going against an injury-depleted defense. If he wants his money, he must take advantage with his array of quality weapons.
Notable Injuries:
Bud Dupree (PIT) – The Steelers front seven was expected to rank among the best in the league this season after such a strong finish to 2015. Dupree was a big part of that. Now the team is forced to adjust as the outside linebacker deals with a muscle tear in his abdomen. A chance still exists he can return later in the year, but exact details are unknown.
Junior Gallette (WAS) – It may seem odd putting a player that has failed to play a down in Washington on the list, but it’s what Gallette represents. He was expected to help improve the defensive pass rush. An issue that haunted them in a number of key games last year including the playoffs. With him out for the year again (Achilles), the Redskins are back to square one.
Key Matchup:
Josh Norman vs. Antonio Brown
Washington felt their pass defense needed help, so they went out and grabbed it thanks to a puzzling decision by Carolina to release All-Pro cornerback Josh Norman. His arrival couldn’t have been more timely as the Redskins must find a way to cover superstar receiver Antonio Brown who had over 1,800 yards last season.
Prediction: Steelers win 28-27
Next: LA @ SF