Pittsburgh Steelers @ New England Patriots Preview and Predictions

Huge game on Sunday, The Pats face the Steelers in what is a high stakes battle for both clubs who enter 1-1. The Pats likely need this win more than Pitt as they haven't had a winning record since week 1 last season. 

Where to watch and listen

The Patriots are back at home facing the Pittsburgh Steelers at the Gillette Stadium at 1 p.m. EST, Sunday September 21st live on CBS-WBZ and on 98.5 FM The Sports Hub radio.

Last time out and series record

New England and Pittsburgh last met in December 2023 when the Pats ran out 21-18 winners on Thursday Night Football. Pittsburgh haven't visited Gillette Stadium since the 2019 season opener, where the Pats unveiled their sixth Super Bowl Banner. The Steelers were thrashed 33-3 that day. The series all time is finely balanced at 15 wins apiece. New England has the upper hand in post season meetings with a 5-1 record. The Pats just shade home games against Pitt with a 5-4 record. 

What to look out for

The Pats defense has been hot and cold this year, elite at pass rush, sacks, run defense, and pressuring the quarterback. However, they have struggled with tackling and secondary issues. I am not confident Gonzalez will be ready to play this game, but if he does, I am certain he will be very limited. The Steelers could exploit that weakness. 

Pittsburgh are dealing with a few injuries on the defensive side of the ball which could present an opportunity for Drake Maye and the offense to take advantage of. They have confirmed that Joey Porter Jr. and DeShon Elliott are both out.

Special Teams have been hit and miss for both teams with Pats rookie kicker Andy Borregales missing some extra points last week and a field goal in week one against Las Vegas. The Patriots have also had some punting issues. Pittsburgh had a rough kickoff return error last week. Special Teams could be the winning and losing of this game.

Odds and prediction

The bookies have the Steelers as slight favorites with the spread -2.5 and the over/under 44.5 points.

My prediction is based on the belief that the Pats secondary will clean up its act, if so, the Pats win 28-24. If not, Rodgers could have a field day and the Steelers take the spoils. I am hoping the former is correct.