Can the Patriots Surprise the Steelers in Week Three?
Heading into Week Three of the 2025 NFL season, both the New England Patriots and the Pittsburgh Steelers are 1-1. This matchup is crucial for both teams as they both are trying to grow momentum that will sustain throughout the regular season. New England looked solid in their Week Two victory over the Miami Dolphins, with their defense becoming stronger and sharper, while their sophomore quarterback, Drake Maye, has looked great during his first two games. This Aaron Rodgers-led Steelers team will be a true testament to how the Patriots’ season will turn out. If the Patriots can surprise the Steelers in Week Three, this will certainly boost morale heading into their Week Four matchup against the Carolina Panthers.
It was reported a few days ago that cornerback Christian Gonzalez has finally returned to practice. Gonzalez has been absent from the team since July, when he injured his hamstring during the team’s first padded practice. Regardless, the Patriots’ defense has looked fine without him, at least for now. During the season's first two games, the Patriots’ defense has allowed fewer than 21 points. Miami scored 20 on New England last week, plus a kickoff return as well. Yet, the Patriots pulled off their own kick return touchdown as well. Last week, New England’s defense sacked Tua Tagovailoa five times, and during Week One, they obtained four sacks as well. Their pass rush could be a key factor in taking Aaron Rodgers’ offense down. New England has beaten Pittsburgh in eight out of their last nine matchups, with the Patriots currently holding three straight wins over the Steelers. As much as there is buzz around Rogers and this Steelers team, the Patriots’ defense could surprise everyone watching this Week Three matchup.
During the Week Two win over Miami, Maye threw the ball to nine different targets. Running back Rhamondre Stevenson had five catches for 88 yards as well as 11 carries for 54 yards on the ground. Austin Hooper, Stefon Diggs, Kayshon Boutte, TreVeyon Henderson, and Hunter Henry are all clicking with their quarterback as time goes on, which becomes a crucial aspect, especially when you're a good football team on the verge of being great. Maye threw for 287 yards in Week One and 230 in Week Two, throwing three touchdowns and an interception between those two games. If the Patriots’ sophomore quarterback can continue to connect with all his targets on the field, New England should have the upper hand. The Steelers’ defense has allowed 24 points in back-to-back games; there shouldn’t be an excuse why the Patriots’ offense can’t step up and get the job done Sunday afternoon. The Patriots absolutely have the potential to surprise the hyped-up Steelers in this Week Three showdown.
