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The Washington Commanders (7-2) begin their most important stretch season on Sunday when the Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2) come to town. Washington hosts Pittsburgh on Sunday and travels to Philadelphia four days later to play the Eagles in an NFC East showdown.
But before the Commanders turn their attention to Philadelphia, they face one of their toughest tests of the season against the Steelers. Pittsburgh, as usual, brings one of the NFL’s best defenses to town, led by linebacker T.J. Watt and defensive tackle Cameron Heyward.
What must Washington do to extend its winning streak to four games? We look at five keys to victory for the Commanders in Week 10.
Get after Russell Wilson early
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) looks to pass against the New York Giants during the first quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Since taking over as Pittsburgh’s quarterback, Russell Wilson has played well. In two starts, Wilson has completed 63% of his passes for 542 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions. He has taken care of the football and hasn’t hesitated to take shots downfield. However, he has been sacked five times. The Commanders have gotten a solid pass rush this season, and Pittsburgh’s offensive line has issues, specifically with left tackle Broderick Jones. Sunday’s game should be low-scoring, so making a play or two on defense could be the difference. Washington knows that all too well, as that proved to be the difference in last week’s win over the Giants.
No big plays to George Pickens
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) makes a catch in the first half against the Buffalo Bills in a 2024 AFC wild card game at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
Pickens has nine receptions for 185 yards and a touchdown in two games with Wilson at quarterback. He’s averaging 20 yards per reception in those two games. With Marshon Lattimore sidelined, Benjamin St-Juste will likely draw the assignment covering Pickens. St-Juste has struggled at times this season, so he’ll need some help over the top to limit big plays. Wilson can still throw the deep ball. Washington has done an excellent job limiting big plays, which must continue on Sunday.
Have a plan for T.J. Watt
Los Angeles Chargers offensive tackle Joe Alt (76) blocks at the line of scrimmage against Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) during the first quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Pittsburgh won 20-10. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Watt is arguably the NFL’s top pass rusher. He’s having another outstanding season and can wreck a team’s offensive game plan. Watt doesn’t just sack quarterbacks; he forces turnovers. The Commanders have three turnovers through nine games. Watt could cause big problems for right tackle Andrew Wylie. Washington’s pass protection has been excellent this season. Wylie looks like a different player as compared to last year. However, he still gives up more pressure than anyone else on the line. The Commanders can’t have Wylie go one-on-one with Watt the entire game without some help, whether it’s quicker throws, moving the pocket, etc.
Stick with the run
Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders hands the ball off to Austin Ekeler #30 during the first half against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on November 03, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
The Commanders will be without Brian Robinson Jr., but they still have a capable backfield with Austin Ekeler, Jeremy McNichols, Chris Rodriguez and, of course, Jayden Daniels. Washington should always limit how many times Daniels runs the ball, but sometimes, it’s necessary to beat a good defense. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is creative with the run game and must be creative on Sunday. Regardless, he must stick with the run. The Giants had 394 total yards against the Steelers two weeks ago, including 157 on the ground. Washington’s offense is much better than New York’s. You can move the ball on Pittsburgh, so Kingsbury shouldn’t be discouraged if things start slowly.
Feature Ekeler heavily in the passing game
Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler (30) celebrates after the final play of the game against the Chicago Bears at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
We know Austin Ekeler is one of the best, if not the best, pass-catching backs in the NFL. He’s thrived in that role this year when given opportunities. He had two clutch catches in last week’s win. Pittsburgh’s defense might be susceptible to some big plays out of the backfield. According to PFF, “Ekeler ranks 2nd in receiving yards per pass play among RBs this season. The Steelers defense ranks 28th in receiving yards allowed per pass play to RBs.”
