Published: October 5, 2023 at 12:06h.
Last Updated: October 5, 2023 at 12:06h.
Quarterback Kenny Pickett is expected to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 5 despite suffering a knee injury in Week 4’s loss to the Houston Texans.
The Pittsburgh Steelers (2-2) will face off against the first-place Baltimore Ravens (3-1) in a crucial AFC North division matchup in Week 5.
Currently tied with the Cleveland Browns (2-2) for second place in the division, the Steelers’ chances have improved after the Cincinnati Bengals, previously favored to win the AFC North, have struggled with injuries and a 1-3 record.
Pickett Overcomes Knee Injury
Kenny Pickett left the Week 4 game against the Texans with a knee injury after getting sacked in the third quarter. However, Pickett’s injury has been diagnosed as a deep bone bruise, and he is expected to play without missing any time. Pickett was seen wearing a knee brace during practice on Wednesday.
“I feel good and will be ready to go by Sunday,” said Pickett after practice.
This season, Pickett has completed 60.6% of his passes for 803 yards, four touchdowns, and four interceptions in four games.
Pickett has a 9-7 record in 16 starts with the Steelers, going 7-5 last season and 2-2 this season. However, if Pickett struggles or his knee brace hampers his performance, backup Mitch Trubisky, who has a career record of 31-24 as a starter, may take over.
Pickett’s Hand Size a Concern
One criticism of Pickett during the 2022 NFL Draft was the size of his hands, measuring at only 8.5 inches. However, Pickett was a successful quarterback for the Pittsburgh Panthers, throwing 81 touchdowns and leading his team to a 32-17 record as a starter.
The Steelers took a chance on Pickett with the #20 pick in the draft after Ben Roethlisberger retired. Other quarterbacks selected in the 2022 draft include Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons), Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans), Matt Corral (Carolina Panthers), Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots), Sam Howell (Washington Commanders), Skylar Thompson (Miami Dolphins), and Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers).
Purdy, who went to the 49ers, has been a steal for San Francisco with a 9-0 record as a starter over the past two seasons, contributing to their success as a Super Bowl contender.
Struggles on Offense
The Steelers’ offensive coordinator, Matt Canada, has faced criticism from fans for his predictable play-calling. The Steelers have averaged only 15.5 points per game this season, ranking among the lowest-scoring offenses in the NFL.
With an average of 263 yards per game, the Steelers’ offense ranks fourth worst in the league. The rushing attack averages just 78.8 yards per game, while the passing game produces 184.3 air yards per game, ranking eighth lowest in the NFL.
According to advanced metrics, the Steelers rank poorly in offensive efficiency, coming in at #30 in offensive DVOA and #31 in expected points added per play (EPA).
Despite their struggles, the Steelers have had a winning record every season under head coach Mike Tomlin. However, oddsmakers have set their win total for this year at 8.5, with the under being favored.
Steelers’ Odds and Futures
The Steelers are considered underdogs as a +4 home team against the Ravens for their upcoming game. The Ravens have a 3-1 record against the point spread this season, while the Steelers are 2-2 ATS.
In the AFC North futures market, the Ravens are the favorites to win the division at -125 odds. The Browns are listed at +275, followed by the Steelers at +650, and the Bengals at +700.
As for their Super Bowl chances, the Steelers are considered long shots with odds of +7000. Their odds to win the AFC Championship are listed at +3500.
According to a prop bet from DraftKings, the Steelers have +190 odds to make the playoffs and -235 odds to miss the playoffs.
Despite the skepticism, the Steelers have consistently performed well under Tomlin’s leadership. However, this year’s scoring struggles have raised concerns among fans and bettors alike.