The Chargers are looking to bounce back after their 27-20 loss to the Vikings in Week 10.
Los Angeles has had its ups and downs, and thus in order to get back in the win column against Pittsburgh, it is imperative that certain players perform well.
DT Justin Jones
The run defense has steadily improved since Jones returned back to the action. The Chargers will need him to step up in a big way to slow down running back Najee Harris, as he will be the only starter playing since Jerry Tillery, Christian Covington are on the reserve/COVID-19 list and Linval Joseph is dealing with a shoulder injury.
EDGE Uchenna Nwosu
Nwosu is coming off his best performance of the season, and he will have an opportunity to carry that momentum to Sunday night. He will be lined up across from rookie left tackle Dan Moore Jr., who has allowed 25 pressures, four sacks, and committed five penalties this season.
CB Michael Davis
The Chargers’ pass defense was the weak link last weekend, with Tevaughn Campbell being the primary culprit. But the secondary should benefit from the return of Davis. Nonetheless, Diontae Johnson and Chase Claypool both pose a threat to opposing secondaries.
RB Austin Ekeler
Ekeler has always been a crucial part of the Chargers’ offense. However, his presence is especially vital in this game. The Steelers are struggling against the run. In its last three games, Pittsburgh has allowed an average of 153.7 rushing yards per carry, marking the most by any team in that span. As a result, the game plan should include not only a decent dose of carries but targets in the passing game.
WR Mike Williams
Williams had a solid start and was the team’s most productive pass-catcher, with 31 catches, 472 yards, and six touchdowns through the first five games. However, going into Week 11, Williams has struggled to be as impactful with only ten catches, 137 yards, and no touchdowns. In addition, he dropped three crucial passes, including one last Sunday that would have been a touchdown against Minnesota. As Keenan Allen said, Williams needs to get the ball more to help enhance the offensive production.