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Pittsburgh has some serious talent at the skill positions as well as the home field advantage, but Minnesota has a tough defense. The Vikings played well offensively in its convincing season-opening victory over the Saints, and if they can consistently score points this year this could be a team that will be tough to beat.
While there is a long way to go in the season, this is among the more interesting matchups of the week because of the high-end potential of each team.
Watch this regular season Week 2 matchup live on Sunday, September 17, 2017, at 1 p.m. ET at Heinz Field.
Odds Analysis
The Vikings played on Monday night so the spread hasn’t yet been determined. However, the Steelers will likely be slight favorites based on the home field advantage. If the spread is much more than a field goal, consider taking Minnesota as its defense should be able to go blow to blow with the Steelers. The scoring total isn’t expected to be too high or too low.
Injury Report
Stephon Tuitt -- The Steelers defensive end reportedly tore his biceps in the opener against the Browns which could cause him to miss a significant chunk of action. Tuitt very recently signed a five-year extension worth $60 million and his absence will be big.
Michael Floyd -- The Vikings wide receiver isn’t hurt but will be suspended for this one after a drunken driving arrest in 2016. Floyd’s career has tanked after some solid years in Arizona and he is looking to get back on track in Minnesota. While he won’t be available, Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs looked good in Week 1 and they will be the go-to guys against Pittsburgh.
Player to Watch
T.J. Watt -- The little brother of J.J. Watt had a fantastic NFL debut for Pittsburgh, coming up with two sacks and an interception against the Browns. He wasn’t a high pick but if T.J. Watt can come anywhere close to matching his brother’s fantastic career, it will be a huge boost for the Steelers.
Pittsburgh’s defense isn’t as good as its offense, but if Watt can become a star it would be a huge development. Plenty of guys have had a good game or two in their career before petering out, so Watt must show that he can consistently get after the quarterback at the professional level.
Free ATS Pick
Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown was awesome against the Browns as he helped his team avoid an upset. However, running back Le’Veon Bell did not have a similar impact. Bell missed all of training camp while holding out for a better contract, and he may still be working his way back into game shape. If Bell isn’t his usual self that could be a concern for Pittsburgh.
The Vikings’ issue has been their offense over the past couple of years but Sam Bradford was great in the opener, albeit against a poor Saints defense. Dalvin Cook brought some electricity to the Minnesota running game, and if that duo can excel in Pittsburgh than this game should at least remain close and it could even result in an upset.
Minnesota may be better than expected this season but the Steelers should hold on for this win. Check out the spread as the Vikings could cover if it is too large.
NFL Odds: Steelers 27, Vikings 24
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