Two undefeated teams square off on Sunday as the Los Angeles Chargers take on the Pittsburgh Steelers. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Over 36 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Chargers vs. Steelers
Sunday, September 22, 2024 – 01:00 PM ET at Acrisure Stadium
Run J.K., Run!
The Chargers’ success hasn’t solely relied on Justin Herbert, as they’ve showcased a strong ground game. Rushing for 219 yards in their 26-3 win over the Panthers, J.K. Dobbins led the way with 131 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries, with Gus Edwards adding 59 yards. This rushing dominance has propelled the Chargers to their first 2-0 start since 2012.
Though Herbert’s passing yardage was modest on Sunday, with 130 yards on 14 of 20 attempts, two touchdowns, and one interception, the team hasn’t needed him to carry the load. First-round pick Quentin Johnston caught two touchdown passes, matching his total from last season, leading the team with five receptions for 51 yards.
Defensively, the Chargers suffocated Carolina, allowing only 159 total yards. Joey Bosa and Denzel Perryman contributed sacks, while Elijah Molden added an interception, capping a strong defensive showing.
Steelers’ Surprising 2-0 Start
The Steelers are also off to a 2-0 start, marking their first since the post-Ben Roethlisberger era. Their latest win, a 13-6 road victory over the Denver Broncos, wasn’t without issues. The last time Pittsburgh started 2-0 was in 2020, when they opened the season with 11 straight wins.
Pittsburgh’s biggest challenge has been discipline, with 10 penalties for 78 yards in their Week 2 victory. Offensively, the Steelers stumbled in the second half, as Justin Fields completed only three passes for 16 yards. The offense posted just 62 total yards in the second half, while the Broncos tallied 233.
Despite the offensive struggles, Fields has avoided turnovers in consecutive games, extending his streak of turnover-free performances to four, dating back to his last two games as a Chicago Bear in 2023.
NFL Pick
This matchup has the potential to turn into a high-scoring affair. The Chargers have established a balanced attack, with a powerful rushing game and a reliable passing threat led by Herbert, who has already thrown three touchdowns this season. Johnston’s emergence as a red zone target makes them dangerous on both fronts.
On the Steelers’ side, while the offense has struggled at times, Fields has shown poise, avoiding turnovers. If Pittsburgh can clean up its penalties and improve consistency, their offense could find more success, contributing to what could be a back-and-forth scoring battle.
NFL Pick: Over 36 (-110) at Bet365
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