The NFL off-season marathon continues with the release of the schedule set for Thursday at 8 p.m. ET. The Pittsburgh Steelers, like every other NFL team, will find out what their 2022 schedule looks like. The Steelers have a number of intriguing matchups on their schedule, and based on their opponent list, any of which might be considered a solid prime time showdown.
The Steelers are a major market in the NFL, and they consistently rank at the top for most prime time games, and I don't expect that to change this year. Now I'm not going to predict the entire schedule, nor will I factor in schedule leaks. Instead, I will give my top 5 potential prime time matchups for the Steelers.
5. Las Vegas Raiders
This is one of the greatest rivalries in football, albeit not as intense as it once was. These two teams have been competing against each other since the 70's. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the renowned Immaculate Reception.
Steelers vs Raiders never fails to disappoint, no matter how horrible both teams are, providing yet another reason to make this a night game.
4. Baltimore Ravens
Is this actually a credible list without the Baltimore Ravens? This is perhaps the best rivalry in the NFL, and these two teams never disappoint when they face off. With speculations of a possible Christmas Day triple header circulating, the NFL may decide to put the Steelers and Ravens together again on Christmas Day. The first one for sure did not disappoint.
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3. Cincinnati Bengals
Another AFC divisional matchup, but this time it's against the reigning AFC Champions. The Steelers will want vengeance against the Bengals after being swept and, quite frankly, embarrassed. The Bengals, led by Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase, will be looking to improve on last season’s success, so beating them won't be easy. The Steelers will need every bit of assistance they can get, and making this a prime time game could be the push that they need.
2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Let’s move away from the division for one moment. The Buccaneers will be in town for what is expected to be Tom Brady's final game at Heinz Field. Brady has been a thorn in the Steelers' side for a long time, and I believe it is only right that this game be played at night. A raucous Heinz Field for Brady's final game would be an incredible experience.
1. Cleveland Browns
Finally, I have to mention another AFC North opponent. This rivalry has only gotten better over the years, and it never fails to impress. The Browns' acquisition of Deshaun Watson makes this an even more difficult battle for the Steelers. When the Steelers play the Browns, the intensity is always an all-time high. When you factor in a potential prime time game, I can only image the energy at Heinz Field. If I had to pick the most likely of the bunch, I'd go with the Browns as the most likely opponent for a night game.
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Who would you like to see the Steelers play prime time? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.
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