Top 5 Matchups to Watch in the Steelers-Patriots game

With the Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots facing off on Sunday, several key player matchups will determine the outcome of this matchup between two of the AFC’s historic franchises.

Here are five top player matchups to watch:

1. DK Metcalf (Steelers WR) vs. Christian Gonzalez (Patriots CB): This is the most anticipated one-on-one match in this game. Gonzalez is healthy and looking to return to his pro bowl form. Metcalf, a new addition to the Steelers, is a massive and athletic receiver who can be a game-breaker. He has been a key target for Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers’ offense. Gonzalez, meanwhile, is one of the top young cornerbacks in the NFL and is known for his excellent man coverage skills. If Gonzalez can lock down Metcalf, it will be a major blow to the Steelers’ passing game that lacks complementary options.

2. Steelers Offensive Line vs. Patriots Defensive Line: The Patriots’ defensive front has been a force this season, leading the league in sacks and pressures. They’ve been particularly disruptive on the interior, led by defensive tackle Milton Williams. The Steelers’ offensive line has struggled to protect quarterback Aaron Rodgers. They will be tested by the Patriots pass rush. If the Patriots can consistently collapse the pocket and pressure Rodgers, it will be a long day for the Steelers’ offense.

3. Rhamondre Stevenson (Patriots RB) vs. Steelers Run Defense: The Steelers’ run defense has been brutal up until this point. They are surrendering 149.5 yards per game on the ground. That is historically bad. Rhamondre Stevenson had a breakout game last week and is the type of physical runner who can wear down a defense. The Patriots will likely try to exploit this weakness with a heavy dose of the run game, especially with rookie Tre’Veyon Henderson also getting touches. The Steelers’ ability to contain Stevenson will be crucial.

4. Patriots Rookie QB Drake Maye vs. Steelers Pass Rush: While the Steelers’ defense has struggled, they still possess some of the most dangerous pass rushers in the league, including T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward. They’ll be looking to get after the young Patriots quarterback, Drake Maye. Maye has shown promise, but he’ll need to handle the pressure and make smart decisions against a defense that can generate a pass rush from multiple positions.

5. Steelers TE Pat Freiermuth vs. Patriots Safeties and Linebackers: The Steelers’ offense utilizes its tight ends, and Pat Freiermuth is a key receiving threat, especially in the red zone. He’ll be a tough matchup for the Patriots’ defense, particularly for their linebackers and safeties in coverage. How the Patriots scheme to defend Freiermuth will be a key part of their defensive game plan.