The Pittsburgh Steelers head to Tampa Bay in Week 6 looking to build momentum and establish some consistency after alternating wins and losses through their first five games. The Buccaneers present a challenging matchup, particularly with their stout run defense, but Pittsburgh has opportunities to exploit weaknesses and get back on track. With several injuries affecting the Steelers’ receiving corps and questions surrounding the defense’s recent performance, this matchup could reveal plenty about where the team stands heading into the bye week.
From Jaylen Warren‘s ability to overcome another tough defensive front to the Steelers’ approach against a rookie quarterback, several factors could determine the outcome. Pittsburgh will also need contributions from young receivers and may lean more heavily on its tight ends to compensate for its lack of healthy wideouts.
Here are four things to watch when the Steelers take on the Buccaneers in Week 6.
Can the Steelers Run the Ball?
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Tampa Bay boasts a stout front seven that will look to make life difficult for Pittsburgh’s rushing attack. Through five weeks, the Buccaneers have been one of the NFL’s most efficient run defenses, presenting a significant challenge for a Steelers offense that has found success on the ground.
Jaylen Warren, however, has consistently risen to the occasion against tough opponents. Even when facing defenses that entered games on hot streaks or had established themselves as strong units, Warren has found ways to make an impact. Can he overcome another difficult matchup and help Pittsburgh establish its ground game?
Will Germie Bernard Have Another Solid Outing?
Bernard has an opportunity to step up in the Steelers’ receiving corps and potentially hold on to the WR2 role. Roman Wilson’s return timeline remains unclear, while Michael Pittman Jr. likely won’t return until after the bye week.
If Bernard can deliver another performance like the one he produced in Week 5, that would provide a significant boost to Pittsburgh’s offense. An even stronger showing could give the Steelers another reason to trust the young receiver with a larger role moving forward.
Can the Steelers Defense Take a Step Forward?
No one expects this unit to suddenly resemble the legendary 2008 Steelers defense. However, facing a rookie quarterback gives Pittsburgh an opportunity to improve its recent performances and adjust some of the defensive approaches that have struggled in previous weeks.
The Steelers need to keep Tampa Bay’s offense in front of them while generating consistent pressure. Keeping Jalon Daniels in the pocket will be critical, particularly given his ability to make plays with his legs. Pittsburgh has the personnel to execute that plan, but the defense must turn its potential into production.
Will the Steelers Run Mostly 12 Personnel?
With Pittsburgh down to just a handful of healthy wide receivers who were on the roster in Week 1, how often will the Steelers use 11 personnel, which features one running back, one tight end and three wide receivers? Aaron Rodgers has prior experience working with Brandon Smith, but Pittsburgh shouldn’t expect an instant connection that transforms the passing game overnight.
That situation could lead the Steelers to lean more heavily on 12 personnel, featuring two tight ends alongside one running back and two wide receivers. The approach would allow Pittsburgh to get its talented tight ends more involved while creating potential matchup advantages against Tampa Bay’s defense. If the Steelers can use those personnel groupings effectively, they may find a productive way to offset their depleted receiving corps.
More on the Pittsburgh Steelers
- Steelers Rookie Germie Bernard Is Earning Aaron Rodgers’ Trust
- Steelers Announce TE Move After DK Metcalf News
- Aaron Rodgers Needs His Tight Ends More as Steelers Face Buccaneers
- Steelers Rookie Daylen Everette Is Thriving Under Fire
