Pittsburgh Steelers vs L.a. Chargers Chargers Picks and Predictions September 22nd 2024

The Chargers and Steelers will kick off at 1:00 ET on Sunday, September 22nd, with the Steelers favored on the money line at -126. The Chargers are +105 on the money line, and the point spread is -2 in favor of the Steelers. The game is being televised on CBS, and the over/under line is at 35.5 points.

Los Angeles vs. Pittsburgh Key Information

The Chargers improved to 2-0 with a 26-3 win over the Panthers, easily covering the spread as 4.5-point favorites. The game finished with a combined 29 points, falling short of the over/under line of 38.5 points. Los Angeles dominated from the start, leading 20-0 at halftime.

Justin Herbert’s two touchdown passes to Quentin Johnston and another to Ladd McConkey in the 4th quarter helped secure the win. J.K. Dobbins also had a 43-yard touchdown run in the 2nd quarter. The Chargers’ defense was equally impressive, holding the Panthers to just a field goal until late in the 3rd quarter.

The Chargers’ offense put up 26 points in their 26-3 win over the Panthers, with a good balance in the running game, gaining 219 yards on 44 attempts. Despite struggling in the passing game, they still managed to score two touchdowns through the air. Justin Herbert completed 14 of 20 passes for 130 yards and two touchdowns, but he also threw one interception. The offense had 21 first downs and converted 56.2% of their third down attempts.

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J.K. Dobbins was the leading rusher with 131 yards on 17 attempts, including a long run of 43 yards and one touchdown. Quentin Johnston caught two touchdown passes and led the team with 51 yards receiving. Herbert finished with a passer rating of 100.

In their most recent game, the Chargers’ defense was dominant, allowing just 69 passing yards on 18 completions in a 26-3 win over the Panthers. Carolina managed only 159 total yards and just 3 points. The Chargers’ run defense gave up 90 yards on 18 attempts, with the Panthers averaging 5 yards per attempt on the ground.The Chargers defended the pass well, allowing just 69 yards and coming away with one interception. Additionally, they limited Carolina to an 8.3% conversion rate on third down and recorded two sacks.

The Steelers are now 2-0 after their 13-6 win over the Broncos. Pittsburgh, who were on the road for this one, were 2.5-point favorites heading into the game. The 19 combined points were well below the over/under line of 36.5 points. The Steelers’ defense was excellent, holding the Broncos to just six points.Pittsburgh led 10-0 at halftime, and while the Broncos did get within 13-6 in the 3rd quarter, the Steelers were able to hold on for the win. The Steelers are now 2-0 on the season.

The Steelers’ offense struggled to move the ball through the air in their 13-6 win over the Broncos, managing just 110 yards passing. Pittsburgh’s running game was more effective, with 141 yards on 36 attempts. Justin Fields, who went 13/20 for 117 yards and one touchdown, was the team’s leading passer. Fields also ran for 27 yards.

Najee Harris rushed for 69 yards to lead the team, and Pat Freiermuth was the top receiver with 39 yards on four catches. The Steelers finished with 16 first downs and 295 total yards, and they were 30.8% on third down.

In their 13-6 win over the Broncos, the Steelers’ defense was outstanding on third downs, allowing just a 16.7% conversion rate. They also limited Denver to 64 rushing yards on only 19 attempts. Pittsburgh’s defense didn’t allow a touchdown, picked off two passes, and held the Broncos to just 231 passing yards.The Steelers’ pass rush was effective, as they came away with two sacks and had a positive differential in both QB hits and tackles for loss. Overall, the Steelers gave up only 295 total yards in the game.

Our pick vs. the spread in this week three matchup between the Chargers and Steelers is to take the Chargers to cover as road underdogs. The point spread lines currently have the Chargers at +2, making them our pick to cover, despite our score prediction favoring the Steelers to win 18-17.

For this one, we have a lean towards taking the under, with the O/U line sitting at just 35.5 points. Our prediction is that these teams will combine for 35 points, making the under a good bet to consider.

Top Scoring Defenses Clash as Chargers Take on Steelers

A defensive showdown is on the horizon as two of the NFL’s top-ranked defenses meet this Sunday when the Pittsburgh Steelers host the Los Angeles Chargers. Both teams have been stifling their opponents early in the season, setting the stage for a low-scoring, hard-hitting battle.

Defense Reigns Supreme

The Los Angeles Chargers (2-0) enter the matchup with the league’s best scoring defense, allowing a mere 6.5 points per game. Not far behind, the Pittsburgh Steelers (2-0) rank second, surrendering just 8.0 points per game. Both teams have showcased elite front sevens and disciplined secondaries, making it difficult for offenses to find success.

Los Angeles head coach Jim Harbaugh praised Pittsburgh’s defense, highlighting their effectiveness across the board.

“Outstanding,” Harbaugh said of the Steelers’ defense. “One of the best front sevens in football, and elite in the coverage area as well.”

Chargers’ QB Dilemma

While the Chargers’ defense is thriving, the offense could face uncertainty if star quarterback Justin Herbert is unable to play. Herbert is dealing with an ankle injury and did not practice on Wednesday, raising concerns about his availability.

Harbaugh remains hopeful that Herbert will suit up, but if not, backup quarterback Easton Stick will get the start. The Chargers have confidence in Stick, but the drop-off from a proven playmaker like Herbert to an untested backup could present challenges against Pittsburgh’s aggressive defense.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, however, isn’t jumping to conclusions just yet.

“I don’t speculate and read stuff on Tuesday, it’s a waste of time,” Tomlin said. “Participation, or lack thereof, is what gets my attention.”

Steelers Steady with Fields Under Center

The Steelers also have questions at the quarterback position. Justin Fields has been leading the team while veteran Russell Wilson recovers from a calf injury. Fields, a promising young quarterback, completed 13 of 20 passes for 117 yards and a touchdown in Pittsburgh’s 13-6 victory over the Denver Broncos last Sunday.

Tomlin has been impressed with Fields’ demeanor and ability to perform under pressure.

“He loves to compete,” Tomlin said. “He’s got a quiet confidence about him. He doesn’t change in environments. There’s a clarity in his communication, in his response to communication, that’s really comfortable.”

Fields will have his hands full against a Chargers defense that dominated in their Week 2 victory over the Carolina Panthers. The Chargers held the Panthers to just three points in a 26-3 rout, with J.K. Dobbins rushing for 131 yards and a touchdown while Herbert contributed 130 yards and two touchdowns before exiting with the ankle injury.

Familiar Foes

A key element in this matchup is the chess game between Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman and the Steelers’ defense. Roman, who previously coached with the Baltimore Ravens, is no stranger to Pittsburgh, having faced the Steelers’ defense multiple times. His offensive scheme, particularly in the running game, will look to test the Steelers’ front seven.

“Greg Roman’s gone against the Steelers, Steelers have gone against Greg Roman,” Harbaugh noted. “There’s experience on both sides.”

Injury Concerns on Both Sides

Injuries could play a significant role in the outcome of this game. Aside from Herbert’s status, the Chargers are dealing with several other key injuries. Wide receiver Joshua Palmer (elbow/calf) did not practice on Wednesday, and linebacker Bud Dupree (illness), a former Steeler, was also sidelined. Star linebacker Joey Bosa (hip) was a limited participant in practice, raising further concerns for Los Angeles.

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For Pittsburgh, guard Isaac Seumalo (pectoral) and tight end MyCole Pruitt (knee) were among those who missed practice on Wednesday, while wide receiver Roman Wilson was limited due to an ankle injury.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Chargers’ Front Seven vs. Justin Fields: The Steelers’ young quarterback will need to navigate a tough Chargers defensive front led by Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. Fields’ ability to extend plays and make quick decisions under pressure will be crucial in helping the Steelers move the ball against a stingy defense.
2. Steelers Defense vs. Easton Stick (or Justin Herbert): If Herbert can’t play, the Steelers will have the advantage of facing Easton Stick, an inexperienced quarterback stepping into a starting role. Pittsburgh’s defense, known for generating pressure and forcing turnovers, will look to capitalize on any mistakes Stick might make in the passing game.
3. J.K. Dobbins vs. Steelers Run Defense: The Chargers’ running game, led by J.K. Dobbins, has been a reliable source of offense. The Steelers will need to focus on shutting down Dobbins, who has shown his ability to grind out tough yards and break big plays.
4. Steelers’ Wide Receivers vs. Chargers’ Secondary: With Roman Wilson potentially limited by injury, the Steelers’ receiving corps will need to step up. Look for Fields to lean on his top targets and exploit any mismatches in the Chargers’ secondary.

Final Thoughts

This matchup between the Steelers and Chargers could be a defensive masterclass, with both teams boasting top-tier units that have kept opponents in check through two weeks. The outcome may hinge on quarterback play, with Justin Herbert’s health looming as a major factor. If Herbert plays, the Chargers will be tough to beat, but if he’s out, Pittsburgh’s defense could have the upper hand.

Both teams are aiming to remain unbeaten, but only one can escape Sunday’s game with their perfect record intact. Expect a physical, low-scoring affair as these two defensive powerhouses clash in Pittsburgh.