The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Los Angeles Chargers at home in Week 3, and there are certain aspects of the game which can be difficult to predict. Of course, the outcome of the game is paramount, but there are players or position groups who could be viewed as X-Factors.

What is an X-Factor? That definition is an important part of this exercise. If I were to give you a player who was the ultimate X-Factor in Steelers history, it would be Troy Polamalu. Polamalu was able to take over a game almost single-handedly. Whether it being a tackle made where he looked like a heat-seeking missile, or a clutch interception. A game could tilt the Steelers’ way because of Troy.

With the definition out of the way, let’s see who are the X-Factors for the Steelers in the Week 3 game vs. the Chargers:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Broderick Jones

Why: The news of Troy Fautanu’s injury on Friday, and his placement on Injured Reserve (IR) Saturday, has put a damper on the excitement surrounding the Steelers home opener Sunday. However, the fan base should be thankful they have both Dan Moore Jr. and Broderick Jones to be the bookend tackles for as long as Fautanu is out of the lineup. Yes, I’m aware Jones had probably his worst game/series as a professional last week in Denver, but I’m banking on a big bounce back from him on Sunday. He is a first round pick and is getting a new lease as a starter for the foreseeable future in 2024. I believe he’ll have a strong game vs. the Chargers, and he and Moore will get back to their 2023 form.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: Elandon Roberts

Why: The Los Angeles Chargers are a team that wants to run the ball. The only teams that run on a higher percentage of offensive plays through two weeks of the 2024 NFL season are the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints. Add in the unknown status of quarterback Justin Herbert (at least it is unknown at the time I’m writing this) and the run game for the Chargers is likely even more important. For that reason, linebacker Elandon Roberts should see more snaps this week as the Steelers primary run-stopping linebacker. If Roberts can lead the Steelers run defense to keep the likes of J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards, and company in check, the Chargers offense may have a long day ahead of themselves.

Who is your X-Factor for the game? Let us know in the comment section below, and be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for the Chargers in Week 3.