Outside of AFC North foes, the Pittsburgh Steelers' biggest rival may be the New England Patriots. For much of the last 20 years, the Tom Brady-led team has tormented Steelers fans, which includes multiple defeats in the postseason. With Brady gone, much of the hatred between the two franchises has dissipated, but there is no denying that there is no love lost between the two fanbases. The Steelers and Patriots are set to square off once again in 2023 on a Thursday night matchup in Week 14. Needless to say, this matchup is one of the most highly anticipated games for the black and gold this upcoming season.
Peter Diana / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers' Cam Heyward registers a sack on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.
The Patriots are reportedly hosting free agent running back, Ezekiel Elliott on a visit. This news comes after the team recently held a workout with fellow free agent running back, Leonard Fournette and are also in the process of trying to schedule a meeting with Dalvin Cook, who is perhaps the best player available at the position.
๐จ๐ฝ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ: #Patriots are hosting former #Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott, per @Schultz_Report
โ Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) July 29, 2023
Pats also recently worked out Leonard Fournette and trying to get a visit with Dalvin Cook. pic.twitter.com/tVN8BYokTC
These visits should come as no surprise, as the Patriots are in desperate need of depth at running back. The team already has Rhamondre Stevenson, who is coming off a strong 2022 campaign in which he racked up over 1,000 yards on the ground on a highly impressive 5.0 yards per rush. He also hauled in 69 receptions for 421 yards. With Stevenson poised for an even bigger impact in 2023, the addition of a player such as Fournette or Elliott the team's backfield would give them a formidable one-two punch.
MATT FREED / PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE
Cowboys' RB, Ezekiel Elliott Against The Steelers In 2016
Are The Patriots Being Overlooked In The AFC?
It is no secret that the Patriots are at their best when they run the ball effectively. Furthermore, the team has not been shy about brining in well-known free agent running backs who are on the back-half of their careers, such as Steven Jackson in 2015 or Fred Taylor in 2009. Could Elliott or Fournette possibly be the latest player to continue this trend? Certainly possible, as the Bill Belichick-led team will undoubtedly need a high-powered offense to compete in an immensely crowded AFC East division.
Much of the attention this offseason regarding teams in the division has been centered around the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins. The Jets, who significantly upgraded their quarterback position with the acquisition of Aaron Rodgers will be much more competitive in 2023. Additionally, the Dolphins, who brought in free agents such as Jalen Ramsey, Braxton Berrios, and David Long Jr. will also be better. Both teams, despite their lack of success in winning the AFC East in recent years, are projected to win more games in 2023 than the Patriots.
The Patriots finished the 2022 campaign with a record of 8-9. Starting quarterback, Mac Jones, seemed to take a bit of step-back in his second year, only throwing for a little less than 3,000 yards in 14 games. Much of the blame for his poor level of play this past season was placed on coaching, in which Matt Patricia served as the "de-facto" offensive coordinator. Bill O'Brien, who was on the Patriots staff from 2007-2011, will serve in the role in 2023. Needless to say, he will be asked to help restore the confidence of Jones and help return the Patriots to the top of the AFC.
Elsa / Getty Images
Steelers Will Not Play Aaron Rodgers And The Jets In 2023
More Wins In 2023 - Steelers Or Patriots?
Interestingly enough, both the Steelers and Patriots find themselves in a similar situation heading into this upcoming season. Both are widely viewed as "middle of the pack" teams who are not expected to be seriously considered for a division title in 2023. With that being said, one would be foolish to count out either Belichick or Mike Tomlin when it comes to exceeding expectations. It will certainly be interesting to see how each team fares this season. The regular season can not get here soon enough!
How would Yinz feel about the Patriots bringing in a running back such as Elliott? Do you think they are a legitimate threat to win the AFC East? How are you feeling about the Steelers' chances of winning the AFC North? Be sure to let us know in the comments!
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