Nick Piccone
We’re predicting this weekend’s Eagles-Steelers game, which will give us a good measure of where the Eagles are at heading into their bye week and then playing two road games in Detroit and DC before returning to The Linc on October 23 against the Vikings.
And we’ll definitely be ready for that one.
But, first, the Steelers. The favorite in many’s eyes to represent the AFC in this year’s Super Bowl. What does the Pi staff think will go down Sunday? Let’s find out. [Note: These were all sent to me separately.]
Tyler: The Wentz Wagon is rolling along like a well-oiled machine after two straight wins to open the season, however, not having Leodis McKelvin or Zach Ertz is a bit frightening going up against a formidable Steelers squad. Pittsburgh is easily the biggest test for not only Wentz, but Doug Pederson as well. I think the offense keeps rolling, but the defense won’t be able to stop Big Ben, Antonio Brown, and this Steelers’ offense which seems to be clicking already.
Steelers 31-24.
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PHL Anon: Eagles have been cruising, and it’s not only due to the play of rookie sensation Carson Wentz, but also on a solid defense which is only allowing 12 points per game. The Steelers have been riding high as well, but haven’t won in Philly in a long time. So what can we expect on Sunday?
I see this game being closer than maybe some are giving the Eagles credit for, but I do still see the Steelers making it a tough day on the Eagles’ secondary. Antonio Brown is a monster and can make Pro Bowl corners look foolish. Needless to say, we don’t have Pro Bowlers at corner. Wentz will play well, and continue the momentum of the Wentz Wagon. I don’t for a second believe the Steelers are a lock to win, and I’d love to pick the Birds, but in the end Big Ben and the Steelers will stay undefeated.
Steelers 26-23.
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Adrian: The Steelers haven’t beaten the Eagles in Philly in over 50 years, but that might change Sunday. The Eagles need to limit the possessions of the game, hang around and hope Carson Wentz out-duels Ben Roethlisberger in the fourth. I just don’t see it happening, although the Eagles will look respectable in defeat. Antonio Brown will feast on the Eagles’ cornerbacks.
Steelers 31-24.
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Nick: There’s nothing more I would love tomorrow than seeing the Eagles win and a great WWE Clash of Champions pay-per-view. Oh, yeah. You can read my preview of that right here. The Eagles usually give Ben Roethlisberger a tough time, and the Steelers haven’t won in Philly since before 1966. Are the numbers on their side? Their defense is vastly improved and can give Big Ben trouble. If he can exploit the weak Eagles secondary, then this might not be close.
But with the improved defense and the ability of Carson Wentz to look like a veteran and able to read defenses, I feel good about him in this game. I think he’ll surprise us all, as long as he can avoid the big hit. That will be key.
The one thing I’m concerned about is if the Eagles do win, they head to their bye week with so much momentum that it’s almost certain their game against the Lions on October 9 will be a letdown. But, hey, 3-1 isn’t too shabby. Let’s get that W.
Eagles 23-20.
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Sean: Look, I think Carson Wentz is a solid QB, but he has yet to deal with any turbulence. This Steelers defense will create problems for the Eagles O-line and will be in Wentz’s face all afternoon long. However, I still feel that the Eagles’ O won’t be the reason why they come up short on Sunday. My vision consists of a few extended plays by Big Ben and of course receivers cruising past the secondary for a couple of big plays. Close game, but the Birds come up short.
Steelers 27-23.
As always, we’ll have an in-depth recap of the game right here on Philly Influencer Sunday night.