The Pittsburgh Steelers travel to face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday Night Football in a pivotal Week 10 AFC clash. With the Steelers at 5-3 and the Chargers at 6-3, both teams eye playoff positioning amid injuries and strategic shifts. National media largely favors Pittsburgh in the primetime showdown at SoFi Stadium.
Preview of Steelers vs. Chargers
The Pittsburgh Steelers (5-3) head to SoFi Stadium to take on the Los Angeles Chargers (6-3) on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 8:20 p.m. ET. This rematch of last season's 20-10 Steelers win highlights contrasting narratives: Pittsburgh's rebounding defense versus Los Angeles' decimated offensive line.
Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh anticipates an aggressive Steelers offense, stating on the Jim Rome Show, “We know they’re gonna come in, try to throw the kitchen sink at us, everything they got.” Oweh respects Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers, noting, “This is my second time playing Aaron Rodgers... He’s a guy, the last few of the GOATs left.” Pittsburgh's offense leans heavily on 13 personnel (three tight ends), used on 15.96 percent of plays—far above the league average of 4.68 percent—featuring Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, and Jonnu Smith. WR DK Metcalf adds explosiveness outside.
Key Matchups and Injuries
Pittsburgh's defense, bolstered by recent additions, features S Kyle Dugger, who impressed in his debut with four tackles against the Colts despite limited practice. CB Jalen Ramsey shifts to safety, saying it brings “renewed energy” after 10 years at corner. NT Keeanu Benton has 3.5 sacks this season, more than his first two years combined, and admits the line was “lacking” early but is now setting the tone.
The Chargers' offensive line struggles without LT Joe Alt (season-ending ankle injury) and LT Rashawn Slater (out since August). RT Bobby Hart's knee and ankle issues may force Trevor Penning into action against OLB T.J. Watt. QB Justin Herbert was sacked six times last week. Key Chargers TE Oronde Gadsden Jr. has 32 receptions for 453 yards and two TDs.
Media Picks and Context
National media picks favor the Steelers 11-5, with predictions like Bucky Brooks' 23-17 and Pete Prisco's 29-23. Odds list Chargers as 3-point favorites with a 44.5 over/under. Pittsburgh's No. 7 red-zone offense meets L.A.'s No. 4 red-zone defense. The Steelers held foes under 100 rushing yards in their last two games; continuing that against the Chargers could mark their first three-game streak since early 2024.
Historical tension dates to the 1994 playoffs, a 17-13 Chargers upset Bill Cowher called his worst loss. Both teams, coached by Mike Tomlin (since 2007) and Jim Harbaugh (since 2004), combine for 41 years of experience.
