The matchup between the Atlanta Falcons and Pittsburgh Steelers was set to be an interesting opener with the introduction of two new veteran quarterbacks, Kirk Cousins and Russell Wilson. Atlanta viewed the signing of Cousins as a significant step in their win-now strategy, while Pittsburgh aimed to enhance their playoff-contending team with Wilson, particularly to address their struggling offense. However, Wilson’s absence from the starting lineup due to injury on Sunday morning has improved Atlanta’s chances in this game.
In his place, former Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields will take the helm for the Steelers.
Cousins, despite recovering from a torn Achilles, is seen as a stronger option compared to the turnover-prone Desmond Ridder. In fact, Cousins threw more touchdown passes in just eight games with the Minnesota Vikings (18) than all Falcons quarterbacks combined in the entire 2023 season (17).
The Falcons’ offense boasts talents like running back Bijan Robinson, wide receiver Drake London, and tight end Kyle Pitts, who can all make significant impacts if Cousins is performing well. The stability from Robinson and his counterpart Tyler Allgeier in the running game will have a crucial role in easing the team’s transition at quarterback.
Conversely, the Steelers bring a formidable defense known for pressuring quarterbacks, having ranked 11th in sacks last season. Their secondary is also effective at creating turnovers, finishing with a +11 turnover margin, which was good for third in the league. T.J. Watt remains a dominant pass-rushing force and is a leader in a fierce front seven.
Despite having one of the lowest offensive production rates last season, ranking 25th in yards per game (304.3) and tied for 28th in points per game (17.9), the Steelers still advanced to the playoffs. Pittsburgh is hopeful that Wilson’s potential resurgence in Denver will carry over into a new offensive scheme, but on Sunday, it will be Fields tasked with establishing consistency.
The Steelers will rely on the running duo of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren to drive their offense, but Fields must aim for deep-threat wide receiver George Pickens and red-zone target Pat Freiermuth to enhance their scoring opportunities.
The game will take place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, with FOX broadcasting the matchup. Fans can also stream the game live on Fubo.