Chargers vs Steelers Picks and Prediction – 9/22/2024

The Los Angeles Chargers (2-0) face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers (2-0) at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh. Both teams are undefeated, with the Chargers coming off a dominant 26-3 win over the Carolina Panthers, while the Steelers secured a gritty 13-6 victory against the Denver Broncos. Both teams look to keep winning streaks alive in this AFC battle. Crush the gridiron with our unbeatable NFL picks.

The Chargers have been efficient on offense, averaging 24 points per game, led by quarterback Justin Herbert. Herbert has thrown for 274 yards across two games, tallying three touchdowns with one interception. The ground game, led by J.K. Dobbins has been a standout, with Dobbins rushing for 266 yards and two touchdowns on an impressive 9.9 yards per carry. Wide receiver Quentin Johnston has been a key target with 89 receiving yards and two touchdowns, helping the Chargers be ranked 11th in points per game and 13th in total offense.

Defensively, the Chargers have been a force, allowing just 6.5 points per game, the lowest in the NFL. The Chargers ability to stifle opposing offenses is evident, allowing only 227.5 total yards per game, including just 80.5 rushing yards. The defense has recorded five sacks and two interceptions, with the secondary, led by Derwin James, playing a pivotal role. The ability to control the line of scrimmage and limit big plays has been the key to LA’s success so far.

The Steelers, on the other hand, have relied more on defensive strength, allowing just 8 points per game, second in the NFL. However, the offense has struggled, ranking 25th in points scored with only 15.5 per game. Quarterback Justin Fields has thrown for 273 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions, but the passing attack has yet to find its rhythm. Najee Harris has been the workhorse on the ground, rushing for 139 yards on 37 carries, but the Steelers rank just 12th in rushing offense and have struggled to maintain consistency with the ball.

Defensively, the Steelers have been exceptional, allowing just 260.5 total yards per game. They have excelled in stopping the run, giving up only 76.5 rushing yards per game, fourth-best in the NFL. The defense has four interceptions, ranking second, and the ability to disrupt the passing game has been critical to early-season success. 

The Chargers' balanced offense and suffocating defense give them the edge in this matchup. Pittsburgh's offensive struggles will likely continue against a Chargers defense that excels at limiting both the run and the pass. Expect the Chargers to control the game on both sides of the ball. Final Score Prediction: Los Angeles Chargers win 20-13.