There are plenty of reasons to worry as the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for their Week 2 matchup against the New England Patriots. But the new-look offense led by Mike McCarthy may be able to pull off the win in Foxborough.
From fixing the rushing attack that failed in Week 1 to solving the pass protection problem, here's a look at the offensive keys to victory for the Steelers' Week 2 matchup against the Patriots.
Establish the run game
Pittsburgh's rushing attack couldn't get going in Week 1. Without star wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. in Week 2, it would be a huge problem if the team can't get the run game established against New England. If the Steelers make Rico Dowdle and Jaylen Warren the focal point of their offense, the team could be off to a 2-0 start when
it's all said and done.
Exploit cornerback mismatches
The Patriots are likely to be down cornerback Carlton Davis III, which should open the door for Roman Wilson and Germie Bernard to have a huge game in Week 2. With DK Metcalf staying busy with elite cornerback Christian Gonzalez, Aaron Rodgers would be wise to exploit New England's cornerback depth with Davis possibly out or not at 100%.
Keep Rodgers jersey clean
Against an Atlanta Falcons team down their two starting edge rushers, Rodgers was still pressured throughout the contest. Pittsburgh's offensive line can't afford a repeat performance like that against New England, which features a far better offense and defense than Atlanta. Week 2 will be the proving grounds for Pittsburgh's offensive line.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers' offensive keys to victory for Week 2 matchup vs. Patriots
