Next up for theIndianapolis Colts is a road matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Both teams will enter this game at 2-2, however, the Colts are coming off back-to-back wins, while the Steelers lost their last game.
As part of our matchup preview, here are three things to know, plus a prediction.
Steelers hold a heavy rest advantage over the Colts in this game
The Steelers had a few extra days of rest and time to prepare for this matchup. While the Colts played last Sunday, the Steelers' previous game came on Thursday of Week 4. In addition to that, the Colts also had to travel to London and are again on the road this week, playing in Pittsburgh.
Can the Colts get the passing game going?
Without Alec Pierce to stretch the field, it's been tough sledding for the Colts' offense through the air. Not only is Indianapolis lacking explosive passing plays,
but without a deep threat on the field, opponents are able to defend the Colts more aggressively, shrinking the field by playing closer to the line of scrimmage, which makes moving the ball on short- to intermediate routes more difficult as well.
As good as the Colts run game can be, finding consistent success without a passing game that can consistently help shoulder the workload won't come easily. The Steelers are allowign 7.4 yards per pass attempt this season, which ranks 23rd in the NFL.
Key stats to know about the Steelers
- Points per game: 19.3 (23rd)
- Points per game allowed: 21.8 (14th)
- Yards per rush: 4.4 (8th)
- Yards per rush allowed: 4.3 (20th)
- Yards per pass attempt: 6.4 (25th)
- Yards per pass attempt allowed: 7.4 (23rd)
- Pressure rate on QB: 20.8% (23rd)
- Pressure rate allowed on QB: 24.0% (20th)
- Turnover differential: +2 (13th)
- Third-down conversion rate: 32.0% (T28)
- Defensive third-down conversion rate allowed: 34.7% (8th)
- Red zone success rate: 44.4% (T28)
- Defensive red zone success rate: 60.0% (17th)
Colts vs. Steelers Week 5 prediction
Pete Prisco also likes the Steelers to win this game, and to do so by double digits. Pittsburgh 33, Indianapolis 23.
"The Colts have won two straight as they head to face the Steelers on the road after beating the Commanders in London last week. That's a tough turnaround, while the Steelers have extra days of rest. That matters. The Steelers will get back on track with a victory led by Aaron Rodgers."
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Colts vs. Steelers: 3 things to know, plus a prediction
