When the 2025 NFL schedule came out, the game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins didn’t seem like a game worthy of Monday Night Football. Fast forward to now and both teams are playing scrappy football and chasing a spot in the playoffs. Here are the big storylines for this week’s prime-time game.
What’s wrong with T.J. Watt?
News broke early Thursday morning that Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt was hospitalized for some sort of lunch ailment. Head coach Mike Tomlin was very careful with his words and the entire situation is being kept quiet but it isn’t clear is what’s going on with him is serious enough for him to miss the game or not.
The health of De’Von Achane
The Dolphins offense is a completely different monster with Achane in the game. He’s been dinged up on and off this season and is coming into this game a little hurt as well. He will probably play but if he’s at all limited, that really workd to the advantage of Pittsburgh.
Steelers come out swinging again this week?
The Steelers came out slinging the football downfield last week and had success, but it came at the expense of the run game. This does leave the Dolphins wondering which Steelers scheme to prepare for.
An eye on the Ravens
The Steelers will know what is at stake before the game starts once the Ravens and Bengals square off on Sunday. If the Bengals can pull off the upset, it gives the Steelers a little breathing room but more importantly a chance to take a commanding lead in the division.