The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 NFL schedule reveals three potential trap games, including a matchup against the Carolina Panthers at home. These games could pose unexpected challenges despite the Steelers being favored.
Did someone call for an NFL schedule release? With an official look at the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 season just around the corner, we at Steelers Wire analyzed all 14 opponents and 17 matchups to predict three of the most likely trap games.
From an underwhelming but overlooked NFC South foe to what should be an international beatdown, here's a look at three potential trap games for the Steelers.
The Panthers have been overlooked over the past several years, but the team has been slowly and steadily improving every offseason. Coming off a poor 8-9 record and outclassed in almost every position, the Panthers, in Pittsburgh, are definitely a should-win scenario for the Steelers. But thatās even more reason for concern, as fans have become all too familiar with Pittsburgh playing down to lesser opponents.
This game just feels like a sneaky, typical trap game for the Steelers. Worst team in football? Check. Inexperienced quarterback? Check. Underwhelming offense and defense? Check. New head coach? Check. But the Steelers have been down this road far too often, and all it could take is some Year 2 magic from Titans QB Cam Ward to upset Pittsburgh this upcoming season.
The Steelers have three identified potential trap games, including a matchup against the Carolina Panthers.
Trap games are a concern because the Steelers have a history of underperforming against lesser opponents, which could lead to unexpected losses.
The Carolina Panthers finished the previous season with a record of 8-9, indicating they were outclassed in many matchups.
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When we created our predictions for the Steelers' easiest matchups of the 2026 season, the Saints were regarded as a potential trap game ā and for good reason. On paper, it should be a walk in the park: the Saints were gutted defensively in free agency, are coming off a dreadful 6-11 record, and don't have a true home-field advantage internationally against a passionate Steelers fan base that travels well. The Saints did improve enough on offense to keep the game competitive, but it's still a matchup the Steelers should win ā which is why this may be the trap game of the season.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelersā trap games ahead of 2026 NFL schedule release