The Pittsburgh Steelers (3-0) head to Indianapolis to face the Colts (1-2) this Sunday, aiming to extend their undefeated streak in what promises to be an intense AFC showdown. With a win, Pittsburgh would start 4-0 for the second time under head coach Mike Tomlin and for just the fifth time in the storied franchise’s history. As they look to assert their dominance, the Steelers’ defense, led by superstar linebacker T.J. Watt, has been suffocating opponents with relentless pressure, positioning themselves as one of the league’s most formidable units.
Steelers’ Historic Defense on Display
Pittsburgh has been lights out on defense, allowing 10 or fewer points in each of their first three victories. In doing so, they’ve joined an exclusive club of five teams since 2000 to begin a season this way. The company they keep is elite—previous teams to achieve the feat include the 2009 Denver Broncos and the 2005 Indianapolis Colts, both of which had dominant defenses that helped propel them deep into the postseason.
The key to Pittsburgh’s defensive success has been their ability to control the line of scrimmage and pressure opposing quarterbacks. With T.J. Watt at the helm, the Steelers’ pass rush has been a nightmare for offenses to handle.
T.J. Watt’s Quest for Sack History
Watt, already considered one of the most disruptive defensive players in the NFL, has a chance to make history this Sunday. With 99.5 sacks in 107 career games, Watt is just a half-sack shy of becoming the second-fastest player in NFL history to reach 100 career sacks. He can surpass Pro Football Hall of Famer DeMarcus Ware, who accomplished the feat in 113 games. The only player to reach the milestone faster than Watt is the legendary Reggie White, who did so in just 96 games.
As if that wasn’t enough, Watt can also join White and Jared Allen as the only players in NFL history to record 100 career sacks before turning 30. Watt, who turns 30 on October 11, is chasing an elite group, and Sunday could be the day he cements his legacy among the league’s all-time greats.
Indianapolis’ Struggles and Upside
The Colts come into this game with their backs against the wall, having dropped two of their first three games. However, despite their early-season struggles, Indianapolis boasts a balanced offensive attack led by quarterback Anthony Richardson. Richardson has shown flashes of brilliance, and his mobility could be a factor in challenging Pittsburgh’s pass rush.
The Colts’ offensive line will be tasked with stopping Watt and the Steelers’ front seven, which has been nearly unstoppable through three games. If the Colts can establish their ground game early, it could open up opportunities in the passing attack. However, this is easier said than done against a defense that is as disciplined and aggressive as Pittsburgh’s.
A Pivotal Game for Both Teams
Sunday’s game is crucial for both teams but for different reasons. For the Steelers, a win would solidify their place among the NFL’s elite and continue their march toward a potential deep playoff run. Meanwhile, the Colts are looking to turn their season around and avoid falling into a 1-3 hole in a tough AFC South division.
With one of the league’s most dominant defenses squaring off against a young, dynamic Colts team, this matchup is set to deliver hard-hitting action from start to finish. Will Pittsburgh continue its historic start, or can Indianapolis pull off the upset at home? All eyes will be on Lucas Oil Stadium this Sunday.
