5 bold predictions for the Steelers against the Seahawks

Chase Claypool will dominate the slot

Losing JuJu Smith-Schuster for the season is a big blow to the Steelers offense. He has been their most reliable target in the underneath passing game, and is by far their most physical receiver. That said, Claypool was brilliant when lined up inside against Denver. He had a 59-yard catch and run that set up a touchdown in the second quarter. The pass he caught in the end zone was also a result of him being lined up in the slot.

Pittsburgh has tried over and over again to make Claypool their go-to guy in the deep passing game, but it just hasn’t worked. He hasn’t been able to come down with 50-50 balls, and has been a non-factor when matched up against physical corners. The Steelers should utilize his size and speed in a different way. Making him their predominant slot receiver makes all the sense in the world.

No linebacker or slot cornerback is going to be able to contain Claypool over the middle. Allowing Diontae Johnson and James Washington to be the outside guys while plugging Claypool inside will give the offense a new dynamic. Expect another big game from the second year receiver out of Notre Dame.