Photo: steelers.com
The Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3) face a pivotal Week 9 test against the Indianapolis Colts (7-1) this Sunday; a matchup that could determine whether the Steelers stay in the AFC playoff hunt or continue to slide after two straight losses.
The Colts enter as slight favorites on betting apps like Betway, with oddsmakers expecting a competitive game – but one in which Pittsburgh will need a complete effort in. Pittsburgh has a clear path to an upset if they can control tempo, protect the football, and harness the energy of Acrisure Stadium.
For the Steelers, everything starts with the ground attack. Establishing the run and dictating pace is the best way to limit possessions for a high-powered Colts offense. Sustained drives and short-yardage conversions will allow Pittsburgh to keep its defense fresh and create opportunities for play-action passes.
A productive day from the backfield, utilizing Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell, would help veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers settle into a rhythm without being forced into high-risk throws. Rodgers can continue to spread the ball around to a multitude of targets to keep the offense from bogging down in long-conversion situations that hurt them in their last two games (both losses.)
Aaron Rodgers spoke to the media about the offense & more. @PondLehocky
— Steelers Live (@SteelersLive) October 29, 2025
Indianapolis ranks among the NFL’s most explosive offenses entering this game, while Pittsburgh’s pass defense has struggled to contain chunk plays this season. The Steelers have to eliminate breakdowns in coverage and prevent yards after the catch to avoid falling behind early.
Containing the Colts’ deep threats – Alec Pierce, Josh Downs, and Michael Pittman Jr – and forcing Indianapolis into long, methodical drives will be a major point of emphasis for Steelers defensive coordinator Teryl Austin. The absence of safety DeShon Elliott, who is out with a hyper-extended knee, only heightens the challenge.
Downs (hip) showed up on the injury list this week, as did receiver Anthony Gould (knee), but the Steelers defensive backfield can’t let up in coverage even if those two can’t play on Sunday.
As underdogs, the Steelers cannot afford self-inflicted mistakes. Penalties, blown assignments and turnovers have cost them possessions in recent weeks.
To pull off the upset, they’ll need to flip that trend by forcing takeaways and turning them into points. A plus-two turnover margin or better would likely keep Pittsburgh in striking distance.
After consecutive losses, the Steelers need the home crowd – Steelers Nation – to give them a spark. The atmosphere at Acrisure Stadium could provide it. Last week, Green Bay Packers fans were so loud Rodgers had go go to a silent count, at times, and had to listen to an opposing “Go, Pack, Go,” chant. Steelers fans can reassert their “not in our house” dominance this week from the stands to help their team.
A quick start — whether it’s a defensive stop, a turnover, or a big special-teams play — would energize both the team and its fans. Pittsburgh’s veterans have emphasized the need to channel that emotion into disciplined, physical play from the opening kickoff.
In addition to Elliott, defensive lineman Daniel Ekuale is out for the season with a torn ACL. Those absences thin the team’s depth in the secondary and defensive front, areas the Colts will likely target. Watch for more play from Derrick Harmon in this matchup.
According to NFL.com, Indianapolis has leaned heavily on its balanced attack, with running back Jonathan Taylor and quarterback Daniel Jones forming a steady offensive duo. Pittsburgh will have to get creative defensively to slow them down.
The early edge is being given to Indianapolis, but Pittsburgh’s formula is straightforward: run the football, protect the ball, and win situational downs on defense. If the Steelers can stay disciplined and capitalize on their home-field advantage, an upset is within reach.
Kickoff is set for Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.
