The Los Angeles Rams got back on track in Week 6 with a victory over the Arizona Cardinals and they get to stay home at SoFi Stadium for Week 7 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Rams have been playing solid football throughout the 2023 season, but the matchup against the Steelers is trickier that some might expect. Mike Tomlin seems to have a knack for getting the most out of his teams and he’s doing it again as Pittsburgh is at 3-2 and in contention to win the AFC North.
Both teams were counted out prior to the year, and Sean McVay and Tomlin have shown that they can maximize the talent they have and scrap their way to wins. However, Los Angeles should be motivated to win this game as they can move back up above .500 and get back in the NFC West race.
Rams Offense vs. Steelers Defense
The running game might take a massive hit for the Rams as they’ll be without Kyren Williams and Ronnie Rivers, who are dealing with injuries. In their place, McVay hasn’t confirmed who will start though the early favorite is Zach Evans, who got his first four carries against the Cardinals. However, McVay could opt to mix in Royce Freeman, Darrell Henderson and Myles Gaskin as well.
Pittsburgh’s pass rush remains as stout as ever and the key to slowing it down will be to get bodies on T.J. Watt, who’s having another outstanding year. Matthew Stafford has been great when given time in the pocket, so hopefully the offensive line is able to keep him upright.
Rams Defense vs. Steelers Offense
Kenny Pickett has had ups and downs but has shown flashes for Pittsburgh when the game is on the line. Although the Steelers don’t have many explosive plays on the season, they’ve got George Pickens, who is blossoming into a true alpha receiver. They also might potentially get Diontae Johnson back, giving them another short-yardage weapon, although tight end Pat Freiermuth has been ruled out.
Meanwhile, it remains to be seen what the Rams’ secondary will look like following Derion Kendrick’s arrest, although there is a chance he is still able to play after getting back on the practice field on Friday.
Up front, Aaron Donald and Byron Young have been the best at getting pressure on quarterbacks, so they’ll need to step up to make Pickett uncomfortable.
Keys to Victory
1. Control time of possession
The Steelers methodically move the football downfield and chew up clock, so the Rams need to fight fire with fire and try to hold onto possessions longer in order to force their opponents to play catch up.
2. Keep Kenny Pickett in the pocket
Pickett’s able to keep drives alive with his legs when he’s in trouble, so bottling him up and making sure he’s in the pocket should be a focus for the defense.
