Two teams on a hot streak meet this Sunday as the Steelers head to Washington to take on the Commanders. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Commanders -1.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Steelers vs. Commanders
Sunday, November 10, 2024 – 01:00 PM ET at Northwest Stadium
Steelers Surge Against Giants
Pittsburgh extended its dominance at home with a 26-18 win over the Giants on October 28, marking their 22nd straight home victory in primetime. Calvin Austin III provided a spark for the Steelers’ offense, while the defense came up clutch in critical moments. T.J. Watt strip-sacked Giants QB Daniel Jones with under three minutes remaining, and rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop sealed the win with an interception in the final seconds.
The Steelers now ride a three-game winning streak, sitting atop the AFC North, thanks to a revitalized offense led by Russell Wilson’s return. In his second home start, Wilson completed 20 of 28 passes for 278 yards and a touchdown, balancing the offense’s output and helping the team manage drives.
Najee Harris was a key component, rushing for 114 yards, marking his third straight game over 100 yards. Chris Boswell’s four field goals were crucial, capitalizing on drives that stalled in Giants territory.
Wilson spread the ball effectively, targeting eight receivers and easing the load on primary target George Pickens. Contributions from Austin (54 yards on three catches), Van Jefferson (62 yards on four catches), and even third-string tight end MyCole Pruitt showed the Steelers’ growing versatility on offense.
Commanders Handle Giants
The Commanders continued their impressive start, defeating the Giants 27-22 on Sunday to complete a season sweep and improve to 7-2—their best record since 1996. Rookie QB Jayden Daniels showcased his poise, throwing two touchdowns to Terry McLaurin and completing 15 of 22 passes for 209 yards. Daniels capped the game with a crucial 42-yard completion to Olamide Zaccheaus after the Giants closed the gap, helping Washington maintain control.
The Commanders’ defense made its mark early, with linebacker Dante Fowler’s strip-sack setting up Washington’s first touchdown. Austin Ekeler, stepping up for the injured Brian Robinson, punched in a one-yard score as Washington displayed a balanced approach against a struggling Giants defense.
Keys to the Game
Wilson’s experience and recent form have lifted Pittsburgh’s offense, but Washington’s pass rush, spearheaded by Fowler, will aim to put pressure on him. While Wilson has been sharp, completing 71% of his passes against the Giants, he did have a late fumble that briefly gave New York life. Fowler and the Commanders’ front will look to disrupt Wilson’s rhythm, making his ability to spread the ball essential for Pittsburgh’s success.
Harris is on a three-game 100-yard streak, giving Pittsburgh a dependable run game that keeps defenses on their toes. The Commanders’ line, though showing some cracks against power runners, will need to contain Harris to force the Steelers into predictable passing situations. If Pittsburgh can sustain drives on the ground, it will allow them to control the tempo and keep Washington’s defense on the field.
Daniels has brought energy to Washington’s offense, and his rapport with McLaurin has been a significant factor in the Commanders’ success. The Steelers’ secondary, however, is seasoned at forcing rookie quarterbacks into mistakes. Daniels’ ability to make quick, smart reads will be tested, especially against a defense that thrives on takeaways. Pittsburgh will look to apply pressure, disrupting Daniels’ timing and forcing hurried throws.
Both teams excel at capitalizing on mistakes, making ball security a critical factor. Boswell’s reliability from long range could be the edge if Pittsburgh’s drives stall, while Washington’s defense aims to create short fields. In a game likely to be decided by late possessions, turnovers will be pivotal as both defenses look to control the fourth quarter.
NFL Pick
This matchup could hinge on which quarterback handles the opposing defense’s pressure more effectively and which team capitalizes on late-game mistakes.
Expect a tightly contested game with each defense setting the pace. Pittsburgh’s ground game and Wilson’s savvy might give them a slight advantage, but Washington’s aggressive defense and emerging offense will lead them to a win and cover.
NFL Pick: Commanders -1.5 (-110) at Bet365
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