Detroit Lions Square Off Against Pittsburgh Steelers in Preseason: Betting Lines, Schedule, and Forecast
Rewritten Article:
Are you ready for some football? The Detroit Lions versus the Pittsburgh Steelers is the last game of the 2022 NFL preseason, taking place at Acrisure Stadium (formerly Heinz Field) in Pittsburgh, PA on August 28, with kick-off at 4:30 pm EST. Even if it's a preseason game, it's crucial, since head coaches get one final chance to decide the roster for the upcoming season.
So, while it may not seem as exciting as a regular-season match, this game promises to be anything but a snooze fest. With backs-up putting their best foot forward to impress their bosses, it's shaping up to be a thrilling contest.
Lions vs Steelers Preseason Odds
Kickoff Time: 4:30 PM ET
Venue: Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA
Broadcast: CBS
Spread
Moneyline
Points Over/Under
When, Where, and How to Watch?
- Date: Sunday, August 28
- Time: 4:30 PM ET
- Place: Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA
- How to Watch: CBS
Detroit Lions: Offense Shines
The Lions are 1-1 in the preseason, following a loss at home to the Atlanta Falcons (27-23) and a win on the road against the Indianapolis Colts (27-26). Although their defense wasn't stellar in either game, their offense more than compensated, surprising many with their stronger-than-anticipated performance.
With Dan Campbell rotating his three quarterbacks in the first preseason game – likely starter Jared Goff seeing minimal playing time – the backups did well in the second game. Both David Blough and Tim Boyle threw for one touchdown against the Colts, but their success was largely due to the stellar effort of their offensive teammates, notably Tom Kennedy, Trinity Benson, and the offensive line.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Aiming for a win-win-win Record
Under Mike Tomlin, the Steelers have already impressed us with two preseason victories: 32-25 against the Seattle Seahawks at home and 16-15 over the Jacksonville Jaguars on the road. The final preseason game sees them back home, and spirits are high in Pittsburgh.
Their offense was exceptional in their first preseason game, while their defense was impressive in the second. Expect some combination of their offense and defense to come to life in this game, with all three quarterbacks– Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Mason Rudolph – likely to get some game time, as does rookie DeMarvin Leal (defensive tackle) and linebacker Mark Robinson.
Detroit Lions vs Pittsburgh Steelers Preseason Prediction
While preseason games are challenging to predict, the Steelers, with their better overall team and potential full-strength lineup at home, have the edge in this matchup. We believe they will secure a win, possibly with a score above 39 points.
Picks: Pittsburgh Steelers to win and cover the spread; over 39 points.
Detailed Insights
Reading between the lines...
Key Factors Influencing Roster Decisions
- Performance Matters: How players perform in preseason games—particularly in high-pressure situations—determines depth chart placements for fringe players.
- Financial Factors: Teams prioritize cost-controlled rookie contracts and sometimes cut underperforming veterans with high salaries if younger players outperform them in the preseason.
- Positional Needs: Exposed weaknesses in preseason games (e.g., secondary communication issues or pass-rush deficiencies) can accelerate external acquisitions via trades or free agency.
- Fit and Versatility: Players demonstrating versatility (e.g., a cornerback with the ability to play nickel or safety) secure roster spots, especially in systems emphasizing positional flexibility.
Team-Specific Dynamics (Hypothetical for 2022)
- Detroit Lions: Dan Campbell likely emphasizes culture fits and developmental prospects, particularly in the trenches during preseason.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Traditionally value special teams contributions and draft pedigree, with preseason standouts in coverage units making the roster.
The Detroit Lions and Pittsburgh Steelers face off in the final game of the 2022 NFL preseason, a crucial match as head coaches make the last roster decisions for the upcoming season. Despite being preseason games, this contest is far from a snooze fest, with backups battling to impress their coaches. The Lions, currently 1-1 in the preseason, offer a strong offense, compensating for any lingering defensive concerns. The Steelers, under Mike Tomlin, aim for a perfect 3-0 with their impressive defense and offense promising a thrilling show. With a score of over 39 points predicted, this game promises to be exciting, just like any regular-season match. The moneyline, spread, and points over/under will be decided as the game approaches. In context, performance, cost-controlled rookie contracts, positional needs, and fit and versatility are crucial factors influencing roster decisions for both teams.
