The Los Angeles Chargers have never been associated with the most physical franchises in NFL history. But Jim Harbaugh is quickly changing that perception. After two games, they are dominating in the trenches on both sides of the field. The running game is churning and Justin Herbert is one of the least pressured quarterbacks in the league. On the other side, the defensive line has ground running games to a halt and has racked up six sacks in two games.
Analysts Believe Chargers Can Match Pittsburgh’s Physicality
They now take on the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have long been called one of the most dominant, physical teams in the league, going back 50 years to Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, and the Steel Curtain defense of the 1970s
Analysts are taking notice of the difference that the new regime has instituted. In their preview of the upcoming game, Mike Florio and Chris Simms agreed that the LA can match the Steeler’s physicality and both pick the Chargers to win the game.
As Florio put it, the game will be won in a “very Harbaugh-Steelers’ score of 16-13. Simms agreed and praised new defensive coordinator Jesse Minter’s scheme.
“I think the Charger’s defense, like the Steelers, it’s really good. Like, it’s real deal. Jesse Minter, what he’s done as the defensive coordinator there, they’re very creative. They got pretty damn good talent. I have a hard time thinking Pittsburgh is going to be able to move the ball consistently against this Charger’s defense and then I don’t think it’s going to be pretty on offense. But you’re right, if there’s one team that can out-Steeler the Steeler’s in Pittsburgh, it’s a Jim Harbaugh type of
team. They play that same way. I’m going to go Chargers 20 to 17″
Both teams enter Week 3 undefeated, but the Chargers enter with a better score differential of +35 compared to +15. Neither offense has been spectacular, but they are fourth and fifth versus the run. The Charger’s pass defense is equally as stout as their running defense. But Pittsburgh is middle of the pack averaging 184 per game.
