Steelers vs Titans Preview

Photo Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel, USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3) take on the Tennessee Titans (3-4) at home on Thursday Night Football in week nine. It’s a must win AFC matchup for both teams, as Pittsburgh tries to stay alive in the playoff hunt and Tennessee gets a reassurance with rookie quarterback Will Levis to keep their season alive. 

The Levis-ran offense for the Titans is the best their offense has looked since Tennessee was the number one seed in the AFC a couple seasons back. If Tennessee can beat the Steelers and get to (4-4), they can make some noise in the AFC with one of the league’s best coaches, Mike Vrabel, and a young quarterback that seems to be dominant after a four-touchdown rookie debut last week against the Falcons. 

Even though Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett left Sunday’s game with a rib injury, he has no injury designation and is cleared to play against the Titans. 

Photo Credit: Philip G. Pavely, USA TODAY Sports

It’s going to be tough to run the ball against this Tennessee defensive front, but if Pittsburgh can take what the defense gives them and methodically put drives together, they can win this game. It’s going to be a coaching duel between Mike Tomlin and Mike Vrabel. 

It may be too soon to expect another offensive explosion from Levis and the Titans, but it’s possible this offense stays efficient. The Steelers are a middle-of-the-pack defense against the pass this season, but they’re bottom five against the run. 

The Titans offense has allowed the seventh most sacks in football (25) and this is a Steelers defense that can wreak havoc come Thursday night. Pittsburgh is a different breed at home. This can be a very defensive football game, one not too appealing for a prime time game. 

This is a must win game for both squads. Who do you think will come out on top?