The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are coming off a controversial week five victory against the Falcons and will be going on the road to  face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers may only have one win on the season, but they have a solid defense, led by veteran All-Pro defensive end Cameron Heyward. To come out with a win and advance to four wins there are a few key factors that the Buccaneers need to focus on.

First, the ball needs to be in Tom Brady’s hands. The Steelers have allowed the second most passing yards per game, meaning Brady will be able to take advantage and have success through the air. The Steelers are allowing an average of seven and a half yards per pass attempt, so it’s crucial for the Buccaneers to utilize their talented  receiving core and let Brady throw the ball downfield.

Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Second, the Buccaneers need to focus on getting to Kenny Pickett. While the Steelers offensive line has been one of the lesser overall units in the NFL, they are middle of the pack when it comes to pass protection. The Buccaneers need to apply pressure and let the rookie quarterback Pickett make mistakes, something he has been prone to do with four interceptions in one and a half games this season. 

Lastly, the Buccaneers need to trust the defense. While the Steelers offense may not strike fear into opponents, they have shown flashes of potential with players like Diontae Johnson and George Pickens. The Buccaneers have the sixth least passing yards allowed and 16th least rushing yards allowed per game. The defense is far from where they were in the previous years when it comes to stopping the run game, but in the air, they have been able to hold their own. They need to trust in the defense and limit big plays that can turn the tide of the game and lead to an underdog victory for the Steelers.

If the Bucs can focus on these key factors, they are guaranteed to have success against a struggling Steelers team and come out with the win.