Three bold predictions for the 2023 Pittsburgh Steelers

It's officially here. Gameweek has arrived for the 2023 Pittsburgh Steelers.  And while we are just six days to kickoff, it's time to make one last set of predictions for the black and gold in 2023.  Without further ado, here are three bold predictions for the 2023 Pittsburgh Steelers: Kenny Pickett Wins MVP Coming out […]

Rob Gregson NFL News Writer
Add as preferred source on Google
Jan 8, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) passes against the Cleveland Browns during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Pittsburgh won 28-14. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

It's officially here. Gameweek has arrived for the 2023 Pittsburgh Steelers. 

And while we are just six days to kickoff, it's time to make one last set of predictions for the black and gold in 2023. 

Without further ado, here are three bold predictions for the 2023 Pittsburgh Steelers:

Kenny Pickett Wins MVP

Coming out of the gate hot, I would be surprised if Pickett hoists the MVP trophy at the end of 2023, but I wouldn't be shocked. He has shown to be in total command of the offense after a second year in Pittsburgh and has one of, if not the best skill position group in the league. 

Pickett currently sits at 15th in the odds, at +5000, to win MVP. That makes him a potential hefty profit for anyone willing to put some money down. Whether you decide to cash an MVP ticket on Pickett should largely come down to your confidence in OC Matt Canada, but we'll address that next. 

Steelers Offense Will Finish Top-10 in EPA

If you're unfamiliar with EPA, it's called Expected Points Added, and it's measured per play. EPA per play best describes the efficiency and potential of any particular team unit. Pittsburgh finished in 14th EPA on offense last year, but they were in the top five from week nine on, proving the offense was the catalyst in the 7-2 finish down the stretch. 

I predict Pickett and Co. to pick up where they left off, but this time at a more consistent pace and hot out of the gate, carrying over the momentum of a perfect preseason. 

Pittsburgh Steelers Win the 2023 AFC Championship

There is suddenly a buzz surrounding the 2023 Pittsburgh Steelers, with pundits finally realizing that this team is being undervalued with an over/under set at 8.5 wins, a chance to make the playoffs at +123, and only 21st in their odds to win the Super Bowl. 

But after an impressive preseason, many in the media are hopping on the Steelers bandwagon, especially after seeing they have the 19th hardest strength of schedule thanks to a third-place AFC North finish in 2022. 

And while it won't be easy in the AFC North, games outside of the division include teams like the Colts, Jaguars, Cardinals, and Rams to name a few. 

Featured image via: © Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports