While the full NFL schedule is set to be released Wednesday, all matchups and game locations are already known. The last outstanding unknown is when each game will be played. The Pittsburgh Steelers schedule is tough in 2024. Due to playing in a challenging division division, along with some difficult non-division matchups, the Steelers have their work cut out for them in 2024. Looking at their slate of opponents, below are the four most exciting games on the Steelers schedule.
Note: Divisional games are excluded from this list, as all divisional matchups are intriguing and important. Rather than make a list full of intra-division games, they were left off entirely.
Most Exciting Matchups on Pittsburgh Steelers Schedule
Chiefs @ Steelers
It’s always an exciting game when the defending Super Bowl champions come to town. The last installment of this matchup came in the 2021 NFL Playoffs, when the Kansas City Chiefs dismantled the Steelers in Ben Roethlisberger’s final game. Fast forward a few years and the Chiefs are still the juggernauts of the league, while Pittsburgh’s roster has been massively overhauled in a short time.
This is a key game to circle on the Steelers schedule because it will show how they truly stack up with the league’s top teams. After upgrading their quarterback room, offensive line, and linebackers this offseason, the Steelers are hoping to compete for a Super Bowl in 2024. There’s no better measuring stick than a contest with the reigning champions. Will Russell Wilson be able to carry a lackluster group of wide receivers in a shootout? Will the Steelers highly-touted defense be able to contain Patrick Mahomes? This game will answer those questions and more.
Steelers @ Broncos
There’s not much explanation needed as to why there will be plenty of buzz when the Steelers visit the Denver Broncos. Russell Wilson will make his return to Denver, where his tenure came to an abrupt end this past offseason. While motivation never seems to be an issue for Wilson, he will certainly be ready to go in this revenge game.
There’s also the head-to-head matchup of Wilson and his replacement, rookie Bo Nix, to consider. Under Mike Tomlin, the Steelers have historically been dominant against rookie quarterbacks. While Pittsburgh could ride their defense to victory in this game, the big storyline will be Russell Wilson seeking revenge over his former team. This game is a strong candidate to take place in primetime.
Steelers @ Falcons
Similar to the Broncos game, there will be an obvious revenge storyline when the Steelers visit the Atlanta Falcons. After an underwhelming three-year tenure as Atlanta’s head coach, Arthur Smith will return to his old team as Pittsburgh’s offensive coordinator. Though there always seems to be a chip on Smith’s shoulder, he will be more invested in this game than usual.
Revenge isn’t the only reason this game is exciting, though. After landing Kirk Cousins and improving their wide receiver room this offseason, Atlanta looks on track to be much-improved in 2024. The Steelers should be better in 2024, too. This matchup with Atlanta will give the Steelers a good idea of where they stand in the league’s hierarchy. Atlanta will be a quality but beatable team. It’s the kind of game the Steelers will need to win given their difficult schedule and tough division.
Steelers @ Eagles
This interstate matchup doesn’t happen often, but it always generates buzz. After a disappointing 2023 season, the Philadelphia Eagles seem on track to be one of the league’s elite teams in 2024. They improved their coaching staff, added Saquon Barkley, and had a very good showing in the draft. If Pittsburgh can find a way to win this battle of the NFL’s two Pennsylvania-based teams, it will be a sign they are ready to compete with the league’s best this season.
Main Photo Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
