The Pittsburgh Steelers head to Tampa Bay in Week 6 looking to build momentum and put together consecutive wins for the first time in 2026. However, the Buccaneers present a challenge that will require Pittsburgh to execute in all three phases. From generating explosive plays on offense to limiting Tampa Bay’s opportunities, the Steelers must clean up several areas to leave Florida with a victory.
Pittsburgh has shown flashes of offensive potential this season, but consistency remains a concern. The Steelers cannot afford to rely on one player to generate their biggest plays, allow a mobile quarterback to extend drives, or give the Buccaneers easy scoring opportunities. Here are four things Pittsburgh must do to secure a Week 6 road win.
Generate Three Explosive Plays on Offense Without Jaylen Warren
The Steelers will face a Tampa Bay defense that will make stopping Pittsburgh’s rushing attack a top priority. Jaylen Warren has demonstrated his ability to generate explosive plays as both a runner and a receiver, but the Steelers need more production from the rest of their offense.
If Pittsburgh wants to improve its chances of winning and take a meaningful step forward offensively, it must generate at least three explosive plays without relying on Warren. Whether those plays come from wide receivers, tight ends, or another running back, the Steelers need additional playmakers to step up and create chunk gains.
Contain the Quarterback
The importance of containing Tampa Bay’s quarterback cannot be overstated. The last thing the Steelers need is for rookie Jalon Daniels to create explosive plays outside the pocket and extend drives with his legs. Doing so would put additional pressure on a secondary that already has plenty of responsibilities.
If Pittsburgh’s front seven cannot maintain their assignments and keep Daniels contained, the defense could face a long afternoon. Chasing a mobile quarterback around the field wears down defenders, creates running lanes, and opens opportunities for receivers to find space downfield. The Steelers must keep Daniels in the pocket and force him to win as a passer.
Commit No Turnovers
Turnovers have been a common theme in the Steelers’ two losses, particularly on the road. Pittsburgh must eliminate those mistakes if it hopes to earn consecutive victories for the first time in 2026.
Ball security is a fundamental part of winning football, but it can get overlooked when an offense tries to make big plays. The Steelers must protect the ball, avoid costly giveaways, and prevent Tampa Bay from gaining extra possessions or receiving short fields. Against a team capable of capitalizing on mistakes, even one turnover could change the outcome.
Eliminate Big Returns on Special Teams
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The Steelers’ Week 5 win over the Indianapolis Colts might have unfolded differently if Pittsburgh had prevented several explosive returns. Those returns gave Indianapolis favorable field position and made life more difficult for the Steelers’ defense.
Pittsburgh’s kickoff coverage unit has surrendered too many big returns this season, and that trend must end in Week 6. The Steelers cannot afford to give Tampa Bay’s young offense short fields and easier scoring opportunities. Winning the field-position battle will be especially important on the road, where Pittsburgh needs to make every defensive stop count.
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