Overview
- Los Angeles hosts Pittsburgh at SoFi Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 9 at 8:20 p.m. ET, with both teams in the AFC playoff mix (Chargers 6-3, Steelers 5-3).
- The Chargers added Trevor Penning post-deadline as Joe Alt sits with an ankle injury and Mekhi Becton’s status remains uncertain, shaping both run-game plans and Justin Herbert’s protection.
- Pittsburgh ranks second in pass rush win rate behind T.J. Watt with support from Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig, though Highsmith missed Wednesday’s practice with an injury.
- The Steelers lean on heavy 12/13 personnel and own a top-five rushing DVOA, testing a Chargers defense that often counters with lighter boxes and Derwin James Jr. near the line.
- Special teams could swing field position as Los Angeles ranks last in punt and kickoff coverage, while Pittsburgh owns the NFL’s best average starting field position and just unveiled coverage tweaks with Kyle Dugger that fueled six takeaways against the Colts.