📸 Image Credit: (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)
The NFL Week 2 schedule brings an exciting matchup as the Seattle Seahawks travel to face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Acrisure Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1:00 PM ET (10:00 AM PT), with live coverage on FOX.
This early-season contest offers plenty of intrigue, including storylines surrounding offseason trades, key injuries, and playoff aspirations. Both teams are eager to prove themselves after contrasting Week 1 performances, and this game could set the tone for their campaigns.
Storylines to Watch
DK Metcalf vs His Former Team
One of the biggest headlines is DK Metcalf’s return against Seattle. After being traded to Pittsburgh, Metcalf now lines up with Aaron Rodgers, forming a dangerous passing duo. Facing his old teammates adds drama and emotional weight to the matchup.
Seahawks’ Secondary Concerns
Seattle’s defense has long been built on strong secondary play, but injuries to Devon Witherspoon and Julian Love have created uncertainty. If the unit isn’t at full strength, Pittsburgh’s passing attack could exploit mismatches.Steelers’ Depth Being Tested
On the flip side, the Steelers are battling injuries of their own. Linebacker Malik Harrison, safety DeShon Elliott, and defensive tackle Derrick Harmon are unavailable, which puts pressure on Pittsburgh’s backups to step up in critical moments.
Key Matchups
- Aaron Rodgers vs Seattle’s Secondary: If Witherspoon doesn’t suit up, Rodgers could have a field day with DK Metcalf and George Pickens.
- Seahawks’ O-line vs Steelers’ Pass Rush: Protecting Geno Smith will be crucial. T.J. Watt and the Pittsburgh front seven remain one of the toughest groups in the NFL.
- Coaching Strategies: Mike Tomlin is a master at home openers, while Mike Macdonald is still shaping Seattle’s identity in his first year as head coach.
Recent Form
- Seattle Seahawks: Opened the season with a tough divisional loss to San Francisco, showing fight but struggling with consistency.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Escaped with a close win over the Jets, relying on Rodgers’ experience and timely defense.
Injury Report (Week 2)
Injury Report — Seahawks vs Steelers
| Team | Player | Position | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seahawks | Devon Witherspoon | CB | Questionable |
| Seahawks | Julian Love | DB | Did not practice |
| Seahawks | Uchenna Nwosu | LB | Questionable |
| Steelers | Malik Harrison | LB | Out |
| Steelers | Derrick Harmon | DT | Out |
| Steelers | DeShon Elliott | S | Out |
(Status may change closer to kickoff)
What to Expect
The Seahawks will look to establish a balanced attack with Kenneth Walker III on the ground while Geno Smith targets Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Tyler Lockett. But if they fall behind early, Seattle’s offensive line will be tested against a fierce Pittsburgh front.
The Steelers will lean on Rodgers’ efficiency, DK Metcalf’s size, and Najee Harris’ physical running to control the tempo. Expect Pittsburgh to try and wear down Seattle’s defense by mixing deep shots with ball-control drives.
Expert Predictions
Expert Predictions — Seahawks vs Steelers
| Expert / Source | Pick (Winner) | Spread / Odds | Notes / Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|
| NBC Sports | Steelers | Steelers −3 | Analysts trust Rodgers vs Seattle’s depleted secondary; total around 40 points. |
| Tony’s Picks | Steelers | Steelers −3 | Predict Steelers 24-17; Rodgers and home edge too strong for Seahawks. |
| FieldGulls | Steelers | Seahawks +2.5 underdog | Steelers’ pass rush vs Seattle O-line a mismatch; Steelers slight favourites. |
Most analysts favor the Steelers at home due to Rodgers’ experience and Seattle’s defensive injuries. Oddsmakers have Pittsburgh as a 3-point favorite, with an over/under around 44 points.
Projected Score:
Steelers 27 – Seahawks 20
This Week 2 showdown is more than just an AFC vs NFC battle — it’s a measuring stick. For the Seahawks, it’s about proving they can overcome adversity and compete on the road. For the Steelers, it’s about showing Rodgers can elevate a roster dealing with early injuries. Regardless of the outcome, fans can expect a physical, emotional game filled with storylines that could carry through the season.
