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Expert prediction

San Francisco 49ers vs Pittsburgh Steelers Odds, and Picks (Sep 10)

  • Keith McCarthy
  • Aug 31, 2023 at 7:30 PM EDT

Pick rationale

Analysis & key factors

  • San Francisco went 13-4 last year, but came up short in the NFC title game.
  • Pittsburgh did better than expected, riding a strong defense to a 9-8 record.
  • These two teams last met on September 22, 2019, in a game the 49ers won 24-20.

The NFL season kicks off next week. Let’s preview the upcoming 49ers vs Steelers matchup. Both of these teams have stacked defenses and 2nd-year starting QBs. The winner will be off to a great start.


How to Watch

  • FOX

Preview

The 49ers ended the regular season with 10 straight wins after a 3-4 start last year. They performed well in the playoffs too, but ultimately lost to the Eagles in the NFC Championship Game. San Francisco officially moved on from Trey Lance, trading him to the Cowboys, and locking in Brock Purdy as their QB of the future. Purdy played incredibly well for a rookie, and will aim to continue proving the doubters wrong.

December 4, 2022, Santa Clara, California, U.S: San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy 13 and running back Christian McCaffrey 23 celebrate touchdown on Sunday, December 04, 2022, at Levis Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The 49ers defeated the Dolphins 33-17. Santa Clara U.S. - ZUMAg52_ 20221204_zap_g52_022 Copyright: xAlxGolubx
IMAGO/ZUMA Wire

Pittsburgh was expected to be in a rebuild last season, but managed to finish 9-8, marking the 19th consecutive season they earned an above .500 record. They should be able to make that 20 this season, as QB Kenny Pickett appears to have made major strides. With T.J. Watt returning from injury, an already dangerous Steelers defense will improve too. They could be a sneaky sleeper team if Pickett plays well.


Prediction

The 49ers really struggled at the start of last season, so they’ll be aiming to get off to a hotter start this time around. A road trip to Pittsburgh is a sneakily tough first game, and a great test to see Brock Purdy’s ability against a top notch defense. I’d expect the Steelers to make this a game and keep it pretty close, but I ultimately see the experience on the 49ers offense being the difference maker. I’ll take San Francisco.

NFL Picks:

  • 49ers 23, Steelers 20 ()

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