Week 3 is coming to a close in the NFL regular season, and the Steelers are one of only a handful of teams that remain undefeated. I think this comes as a surprise to many including me! Admittedly, I picked the Steelers to lose in a close contest this weekend. I was pleasantly surprised, I was happy to be wrong, and below are some gut reactions I had following Sunday’s game.

Through 3 Games, Arthur Smith Looks Like a Great Hire

While it’s true that only three touchdowns have been scored through three games, the difference from Week 1 to Week 3 is astounding from an offensive perspective. This past week, the ball was spread all around the field in the passing game. Granted, many of the throws were short completions, but throws were made both down the sidelines and over the middle. Although the Chargers defense held firm through the first half, the running game was able to come to life in the second half. I was so impressed this week with the improvement in an offense that has been stagnant for years, and it brings hope for what could transpire this season. While there are many other new faces besides Smith on the offensive side of the ball, it is refreshing to see the Steelers having success and being more creative in their play calls than they have in years past. Hats off to Arthur in his first home game as the OC.

In Fields We Trust?

Through 3 games, Justin Fields has completed 73.3% of his passes for 518 yards, 2 passing TDs, 1 rushing TD, and 1 interception. After Week 1, it felt as though Russell Wilson was likely to get the start again when he was healthy. Fields played well enough to help Pittsburgh to a win, but his performance was not head-turning by any means. However, Fields has progressed each week this season, and he played a solid game this week. He looked more comfortable in the offense, was spreading the ball around, and even used his legs for a score. Although he did turn the ball over once, his improvement is extremely encouraging. In fact, as long as he continues to improve and lead the Steelers to wins, I am doubtful that Russell Wilson ever gets a chance to start.

Is Fields the quarterback of the future? I suppose only time will tell, but he is young, talented, and improving each week. That is enough right now to keep him in the starting lineup.

The Defense is Championship Level

There is something similar in this article each week regarding the defense, but this squad continues to play at an elite level. Although TJ Watt is exceptional, what is even more impressive about this defense is its depth. Different players at all levels consistently make contributions. This was showcased this past week as Nick Herbig had a big game, racking up 2 sacks and a forced fumble. Watt and company are exciting to watch, very talented, and well coached. This defense is capable of winning a championship; the only question is whether or not the offense can do its part down the stretch.

Pittsburgh Will Win the AFC North

It’s early and this is a bold prediction, but Cincinnati has struggled through the first few weeks. Cleveland has also played inconsistently. Baltimore has a very talented rushing attack between Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson, and they certainly can be a dangerous team when they play well. With that being said, over the last 10 games between the two division rivals, the Steelers are 7-3. For as talented as the Ravens roster may be, Pittsburgh has had their number in recent years. I expect that to continue into 2024, with Pittsburgh winning at least one regular season meeting between the two squads.

If the Steelers continue to not only win but improve each week, they will certainly clinch the division and a playoff berth.