Analysis of the Steelers’ 2014 schedule: Weeks 1-4

WEEK FOUR – PITTSBURGH STEELERS VS TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

Tampa Bay is coming off of a disappointing 2013 season.  The Panthers lost their head coach (fired) and Lovie Smith takes over the reins in 2014.  Jason Licht is the incoming general manager.  Both men have spent the past three months completely revamping and overhauling the Bucs’ roster.  They signed quarterback Josh McCown, defensive end Michael Johnson, tight end Brandon Myers, defensive tackle Clifton McDonald, cornerback Alterraun Verner and offensive linemen Anthony Collins and Evan Dietrich-Smith.  That said, the Buccaneers also lost quite a few veterans and free agents.

The Steelers will be at home facing an opponent that has yet to find out what they really have in store.  Although Pittsburgh lost its share of free agents, they too made additions that could prove of benefit against a team like Tampa Bay.  Heinz Field is one of the toughest stadiums to play in, and with McCown familiar with the Steelers, some would think that Pittsburgh may be at a disadvantage due to youth.  The biggest intangible, in that vein of thinking, is whether McCown will buy into Smith’s program and process.

In this case, it is likely the Steelers triumph, ending their first four games with a 3-1 record in 2014.

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