Chiefs vs. Steelers: 3 key matchups to watch

Travis Kelce vs. Ryan Shazier

The Steelers defense has played well overall this season. But other than their run defense, where the Steelers may struggle the most in this matchup is covering tight ends—specifically a tight end named Travis Kelce. Going into Week 6, Kelce ranks 1st in the NFL in yards by tight ends (not including Zach Ertz who has already played this week). He’ll likely be matched up with Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier.

Shazier has not been targeted much this season with only 7% routes into his coverage challenged by PFF. Shazier is also tops in the league allowing just 0.53 yards per route covered. However, when Shazier has been targeted he has given up 100% of catches into his coverage. In their previous two matchups combined Kelce was targeted 15 times for 10 receptions, 100 yards, and 1 TD.

Taking all of this into account I could see this matchup going either way. Shazier has played well and kept QBs from wanting to target him, and Kelce has been dominant in the pass game at times in the past and this season. I see Kelce producing an average day of 5 receptions for 75 yards.