Jalen Hurts Weakness Headlines Steelers Key to Victory vs. Eagles
The quickest path to a Philadelphia Eagles victory on Sunday, when they host the Pittsburgh Steelers, is if running back Saquon Barkley runs rampant in the second half. If Philadelphia can keep the ball out of Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson’s hands and chew clock in the process, Pittsburgh might have its first fair-weather loss with Wilson under center.
But that requires the Eagles to lead in some capacity, and if the Steelers are putting points on the board, it will be quarterback Jalen Hurts tasked with keeping pace.
After a narrow 22-16 win over the Carolina Panthers, Philadelphia shouldn’t be confident in its passing offense leading the way.
Watt Vs Hurts
By Tony Fisher
Conversely, Pittsburgh’s key to victory is rendering the Eagles offense one-dimensional by shutting down Hurts and an inconsistent passing offense that has been a weakness.
Despite winning nine consecutive contests, Philadelphia’s aerial attack has trended towards average in 2024. By expected points added per dropback, the unit ranks 13th; by success rate, 16th.
That’s not nearly as formidable as its two-headed rushing attack, and the Steelers defense is well-equipped to handle the pass. They rank third in expected points added per dropback and 13th in success rate, positing a mismatch in their favor.
Hurts has been out of sync with receivers, particularly A.J. Brown, in recent weeks. He’s been gun-shy and too willing to scramble; and while his mobility remains a threat, Pittsburgh will gladly sacrifice a few runs instead of downfield targets to an elite receiver.
Further, Brown and receiver DeVonta Smith have the advantage on paper over corners Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson (should the latter be available on Sunday). That puts the onus on arguably the league’s top pass rush, headlined by edge rusher T.J. Watt. With a quartet of talented pass rushers off the edge, few teams match up as well with Philadelphia’s elite offensive line.
Whether it's the pass rush or secondary that steps up, ensuring Hurts has an unsteady day under center is integral. Without it, the offense can remain two-dimensional, regardless of the score, putting an elite defense at risk of allowing a back-breaking explosive play. Between Hurts, Brown, Smith, and Barkley, there’s no shortage of playmakers capable of inflicting damage.
Simply put, the Steelers have known for months that the second half of the schedule would be difficult. They’ve exceeded expectations so far, but a win over another Super Bowl contender would be meaningful in the perception of Pittsburgh as it stares down another trip to the playoffs. Stopping the pass must be a prioritized part of that plan.
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