Steelers’ Bold Predictions for Dublin Game vs. Vikings: Rodgers, Watt, and Metcalf Ready to Make History
The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to make history in Dublin, Ireland, when they face the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, September 28, marking the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Ireland. Both teams enter the matchup with 2-1 records, and the excitement is palpable as the Steelers are looking to make a statement on the international stage. While the matchup is undoubtedly important for both teams, it presents unique opportunities for Pittsburgh’s stars to shine. Here are three bold predictions for the Steelers as they prepare for the historic game at Croke Park.
Aaron Rodgers Will Throw for 300+ Yards and Three Touchdowns
Aaron Rodgers may have had a shaky start to the season, ranking 35th among 36 qualifying quarterbacks in Pro Football Focus’ grades, but the spotlight in Dublin could be just the thing to ignite his performance. Rodgers has thrown for seven touchdowns and three interceptions so far, but his yards per attempt (6.8) has been less than stellar. The Vikings' defense, although strong, may struggle to handle the emotional weight of playing on the international stage. Rodgers thrives on big moments, and with DK Metcalf and Jonnu Smith forming a solid rapport, the Packers’ quarterback is primed for a breakout game. He has a history of performing well in Week 4 matchups, throwing for over 224 yards in 10 of his last 11 such games. Rodgers will exploit the Vikings' secondary, leading the Steelers to a memorable performance in Dublin with over 300 passing yards and three touchdowns. The atmosphere at Croke Park, combined with Pittsburgh being the "home" team, will fuel his resurgence.
T.J. Watt Will Record Three Sacks and Force Two Fumbles
T.J. Watt has had a somewhat quiet start to the season with just two sacks and one forced fumble through three games, but the Vikings' offensive line presents a prime opportunity for the Steelers’ defensive superstar. The Vikings are starting Carson Wentz due to J.J. McCarthy’s injury, and Wentz will be behind a line that has struggled to protect the quarterback. Watt is known for elevating his game in big matchups, and the international stage in Dublin will be no different. Watt has a knack for taking advantage of pass rush opportunities, and he will feast on Wentz’s tendency to hold onto the ball too long. Expect Watt to not only record three sacks but also force at least two fumbles as he brings havoc to the Vikings' offense. This performance will reaffirm why Watt is one of the highest-paid non-quarterbacks in the NFL.
DK Metcalf Will Have His Breakout Game with 8+ Catches for 120+ Yards
DK Metcalf’s transition to Pittsburgh has been a gradual one, but the Vikings’ secondary offers the perfect matchup for Metcalf to explode. The Vikings will be without key defensive backs, and Metcalf has a history of dominating NFC opponents, scoring in each of his last three matchups against the Vikings. As the timing with Rodgers continues to improve, Metcalf will finally showcase his full potential in this game. His size, speed, and physicality will prove too much for the Vikings’ defenders, especially with Byron Murphy Jr. potentially dealing with the effects of international travel. With the historic backdrop of Croke Park and 76,000 fans in attendance, Metcalf will rise to the occasion, recording over 120 yards and at least one touchdown. This breakout performance will solidify his place as Pittsburgh's top receiving threat and prove that the Steelers made the right move in acquiring him.
A Historic Game in Dublin
This matchup in Dublin is more than just a regular-season game for the Pittsburgh Steelers. It’s a chance to make a statement on the international stage while honoring the team’s Irish heritage through the legacy of Art Rooney Sr. With the stakes high, expect Pittsburgh’s stars—Rodgers, Watt, and Metcalf—to deliver performances that will be remembered long after the final whistle. The game at Croke Park will be a defining moment in the careers of these players and will go down in history as one of the most iconic moments for the Steelers. Whether it’s Rodgers silencing his critics, Watt dominating the pass rush, or Metcalf having his breakout game, Pittsburgh’s top players are ready to rise to the occasion and make this game one to remember.
Chris Jones Defends Travis Kelce After Sideline Spat with Andy Reid: "It’s All About Competitive Spirit
While the Kansas City Chiefs turn their attention to Week 4's home matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, questions continue to swirl about the heated sideline exchange between star tight end Travis Kelce and head coach Andy Reid during the team’s Week 3 win over the New York Giants.
It's not unusual for Kelce and Reid to show some fire on the sideline, though it's typically Kelce who initiates it.
This time, however, Reid raised his voice in Kelce's direction following a first-half miscommunication as the Chiefs' offense has struggled to find consistency through the first three games of the season.
The incident went viral with several social media accounts sharing video of the intense confrontation, which Reid later admitted he had no problem with due to Kelce’s competitive nature.
Kelce and Reid joined the Chiefs together back in 2013 and have been integral to the organization's journey ever since, winning three Super Bowls and recording multiple double-digit postseason victories.
So, a little sideline spat was nothing anyone in the Chiefs' facility was worried about, including star pass-rusher Chris Jones, who addressed Kelce's fiery passion on Thursday.
"Travis is a fierce competitor… sometimes in the heat of battle, emotions show,”
After the game, Andy Reid quickly addressed the incident, emphasizing that he's been through a lot with Kelce and truly values the passion the tight end continues to bring to the field in his 13th NFL season.
"He's a passionate guy and I love that part,” Reid said postgame. ” I've been through a lot of things with him, that's all part of it. I love that he loves to play the game."
