3 games to watch in Week 8 which give perspective on the Steelers future opponents

With the Pittsburgh Steelers returning from their bye this week, fans have to wait even longer as the Steelers host the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football. As we wait for the Steelers to play, there are two matchups on Sunday between two teams the Steelers have faced previously squaring off against a team which remains on their schedule.

For Week 8, here are the three games which could give the most perspective on what the Steelers can expect with some of their future opponents:

Cincinnati Bengals vs Los Angeles Rams

Wembley Stadium, London
Sunday at 1:00 PM on CBS

Yes, it’s the Bengals. It’s hard to get any kind of indication on an opponent when they’re already favored by 13 points in a game that is prime time in the UK. But the Steelers are two weeks removed from playing the Rams at the end of their three-game home streak, so seeing how they play against a team the Steelers shut down offensively could possibly give some indication as to the quality of opponent they will face in Week 10.

Cleveland Browns at New England Patriots

Sunday 4:25 PM on CBS

Are Steelers’ fans really going to have to cheer for the Patriots for the next two weeks? In Week Eight that team up north hosts the Cleveland Browns and then has to travel to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 9. New England‘s defense has completely shut down their opponents in 2018, so getting an idea of how Baker Mayfield responds to such a quality opponent might give the Steelers a blueprint as to how to frustrate the young quarterback. The Steelers will be traveling to Cleveland on a short week for Thursday Night Football in Week 11.

Denver Broncos at Indianapolis Colts

Sunday at 1:00 PM on CBS

For the first time this season, there are not three games in which two teams are matched up that are on the Steeler schedule. Obviously, we’re not including the Steelers game. So if there’s one more game to pay attention to, why not focus on the Steelers next opponent for Week 9? The Indianapolis Colts will be traveling to Heinz Field after they square off at home against the Denver Broncos. A strong showing from Denver would be beneficial in two ways as the Browns must travel to the Mile High City in Week 9. It’s not as bad as having to root for the Patriots, but pulling for Joe Flacco a couple weeks in a row doesn’t leave a good taste in my mouth either.

So there are the three main matchups which can give Steeler fans an indication as to the quality of upcoming opponents in 2019. While each week is a different game and upsets due to certain matchups are bound to happen, the greater the body of work each team puts on the field can help to draw better conclusions.

So which of these games on Sunday will be the most telling as it pertains to the 2019 Pittsburgh Steelers? Make sure you vote in the poll and give your thoughts in the comments below.