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Who is the Steelers X-Factor vs. the Falcons in the Week 1?
The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Atlanta Falcons on the road in Week 1, 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 1 game vs. the Falcons:
Jeff Hartman
X-Factor: The Offensive Line
Why: I cheated, and it’s just Week 1. I always hated using a group for the X-Factor article, considering I typically like to focus on one player. But in this regard, I think my reasoning is justified by choosing the offensive line. Not only will this group have to have a great game for the Steelers to win, but it also comes down to the players who are expected to play.
Rookie center Zach Frazier will be the linchpin in the middle of the line, and Spencer Anderson will be at left guard. Throw in Broderick Jones at right tackle and Dan Moore at left tackle, and it leaves Moore and James Daniels as the elder statesmen of the group. Not an ideal way to start the season.
But if the offensive line can gel quickly, open some running lanes and give the quarterback, whoever it is, time to throw, there is a strong chance they can make some noise down in Atlanta. If Justin Fields is at quarterback, not having any quarterback/center miscues will certainly be something to avoid in enemy territory. Nonetheless, run the football and provide decent pass protection will be what is needed to claim victory in Week 1.
Dave Schofield
X-Factor: Patrick Queen & Elandon Roberts
Why: I’m trying to look at the Steelers defense from the perspective of the Atlanta Falcons. The front five of the Steelers defense is a lot to handle, and T.J. Watt affects a team’s game plan more than anyone else in the NFL. So what will the Falcons do to combat the Steelers defensive front? I look for a big dose of Bijan Robinson both running the ball and in the short/quick passing game. Enter Patrick Queen and Elandon Roberts. If the Steelers inside linebackers can take care of business when it comes to the Falcons running game, it will give more opportunities for splash plays from the rest of the defense.
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 Falcons in Week 1.
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