What a better way to kick off the NFL season then having the defending champs face one of their AFC rivals…oh wait, that’s not happening this year.
The NFL has decided that the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears will play each other to open its 100th season of the National Football League. Instead, New England will be playing on Sunday Night Football against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Let’s get to know the Pittsburgh Steelers and what to expect during this week one matchup!
After a disappointing end to a drama-filled season last year, Pittsburgh is determined to get back in the playoffs in January. After getting rid of Antonio Brown and letting Le’veon Bell walk after missing the whole 2018-2019 season, the Steelers believe their organization can turn the page now and get back to winning. Mike Tomlin also made it clear to the media that he didn’t like the way things ended last year and took responsibility for some of the things that went wrong. Tomlin still does believe that Antonio Brown gave up on his team as that still looms over his head. With a new year right around the corner, Tomlin will need to be ready for this season. With a defense that was improved from years past, it hopes to become a thorn in it’s opponent’s side. Ben Roethlisberger continues to put up great offensive numbers; and with Ju Ju Smith-Shuster now his number-one receiver, it could be a dangerous combination.
The Pittsburgh Steelers do not fare well at Gillette Stadium. Since it opened in 2002, they are 1-5. Their only win at Gillette was in 2008. Tom Brady was injured with a torn ACL. The last time the Steelers played at Gillette Stadium was in 2016 for the AFC Championship game. It was a game which they lost 36-17. With the 6th Championship banner being reviled before the game; the Steelers will have some extra motivation to ruin the party. To open up the Sunday Night Football schedule with this game, it has the makings of a great battle!
–Robert Marcello is a Staff Writer for Full Press Coverage Sports Media and covers the New England Patriots. Follow him on Twitter @RobertMarcello5
