By: Zach Herbaugh
SteelerNation.com
There are a few big matchups that will help dictate the outcome of the Pittsburgh Steelers game on Sunday versus the Houston Texans. Perhaps the biggest matchup will be offensive tackle Chukwuma Okorafor against All-Pro defensive end, JJ Watt of the Texans.
Okorafor is coming off his first start of the 2020 season last week against the Denver Broncos and played very well. He helped propel the run game to over 100 yards and did not allow a sack all game. Okorafor missed having to play All-Pro outside linebacker Von Miller of the Broncos last week due to Miller suffering a season-ending injury prior to the first snap of the season. However, Okorafor will get his first big test of the season this week taking on Watt.
Watt's accolades speak for themselves and he has proven year in and year out to be one of the most disruptive players to opposing offenses in the NFL. Watt, who suffered through injuries the past couple of seasons, appears to be playing back at his NFL DPOY level. Watt has primarily lined up at left end throughout his career, but has been lining up all over the defensive line over the first two weeks of the season. The whole offensive line will likely be feeling the wrath of Watt throughout the game, but don't be mistaken, Okorafor will get the brunt of it.
Okorafor was beaten out by Zach Banner to start the season, but was thrusted into the lineup after Banner suffered a season-ending injury in week one against the New York Giants. Okorafor has starting experience and has proven to be a quality offensive lineman in the NFL, but this game will be his biggest test of his short career so far.
In order for the Steelers to be successful on offense, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will need to be on his feet and healthy. If Okorafor is unable to protect Roethlisberger and keep him on his feet, then the outcome of the game may be in jeopardy. Obviously football is a team sport and requires all players to have great games to obtain a win, but this matchup will leave a lasting impression on the final score of the game.
How do you think the Steelers will handle Watt? Is there another matchup you will be watching this week? Sound off in the comments below!
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