The Philadelphia Eagles (11-2) are riding a nine-game win streak heading into Week 15 and will be looking to make it 10 when they host the Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3) at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday afternoon.
However, it won't be an easy task for the Birds up against one of the best run defenses in the NFL right now and an offense that is averaging 338 yards per game with Russell Wilson at quarterback.
Can Jalen Hurts wake up the passing game to keep the Eagles' hot streak alive and potentially clinch the NFC East? Or will the Steelers shake them up?
A to Z Sports' Steelers insider and beat writer, Rob Gregson, answers that and more in three burning questions ahead of the Keystone State matchup.
1. Steelers star WR George Pickens is likely out for this game. Who is expected to step up in his place and how will this affect the Pittsburgh offense?
Mike Tomlin talked all week about the collective, about no part being bigger than the whole, and saying that all WRs will have to step up. But if there is one name to watch, it’s Mike Williams, who Mike Tomlin believes is on the cusp of breaking out in the Steelers offense.
2. The Steelers have given up the fourth-fewest rushing yards this season. What makes their run defense so good and do you think Saquon Barkley could be a problem for them?
We could talk all about the rebuilt LB corps and more buy-in on the back end as reasons for the run defense’s success. But the real reason is that Cam Heyward is healthy this year, and playing some of his best ball in his mid 30’s at that. He and young talent Keeanu Benton set the tone up front, and the rest of the defense thrives off their energy.
3. The Eagles are riding a nine-game win streak. In your opinion, how do you think the Steelers can snap it? Final score prediction?
I think stopping the run and taking advantage of the Eagles LB group is the key to success for the Steelers. If Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren total over 150 yards on the ground and the Steelers' defense force a few turnovers, then Pittsburgh will break the Eagles' nine-game win streak.
Final Score Prediction: Pittsburgh 23, Philadelphia 20
