It seems like we say this a lot, but this week the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a must-win game as they cling to a slim lead in the AFC North over the Baltimore Ravens. This week the Steelers go on the road to take on the red-hot Chicago Bears. Here are our keys to victory.
Winning on first down to win on third down
The Bears are one of the best defenses in the NFL in terms of third-down conversion rate, so winning on early downs will be key for Pittsburgh. In third-and-long situations, no defense is tougher than Chicago, with just a 16 percent conversion rate allowed.
Huge challenge stopping the run
The Bears have the No. 2 rushing offense in the NFL going into Sunday’s game. They have a trio of players, including quarterback Caleb Williams, who are capable of breaking off big runs. The Bears have 46 rushes of 10 years or more this season.
Protect whoever is playing quarterback
It isn’t clear who is going to be the starting quarterback for the Steelers on Sunday but whoever it is, keeping them upright will be a top priority. If Aaron Rodgers plays, he cannot afford to take any hits on that injured wrist and if Rodgers can’t go, an injury to Mason Rudolph would mean rookie Will Howard is pressed into duty.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers vs Bears: 3 keys to victory for Pittsburgh
