Ahead of the 2023 season, the 49ers have been seen by many analysts as a top contender in the NFC, with projections from oddsmakers having them winning the NFC West.
However, the Steelers pose a stronger challenge than one may expect with a developing offense and strong defense, led by head coach Mike Tomlin, which presents questions as to whether they can upset the 49ers in Week 1.
What do the experts think?
For every game of the season, NFL Network's panel of analysts provide their score predictions, and their thoughts on the 49ers' Week 1 matchup may surprise you.
Six of the ten analysts on the panel picked the Steelers to upset the 49ers, with three believing that the outcome will go in Pittsburgh's favor by just one point.
Here were the results.
Daniel Jeremiah: Steelers 17, 49ers 16
Colleen Wolfe: 49ers 24, Steelers 17
Adam Rank: Steelers 21, 49ers 20
Marcas Grant: 49ers 21, Steelers 17
Marc Sessler: 49ers 19, Steelers 16(Overtime)
Maurice Jones-Drew: 49ers 26, Steelers 17
Grant Gordon: Steelers 17, 49ers 16
Nick Shook: Steelers 23, 49ers 20
Eric Edholm: Steelers 24, 49ers 21
Kevin Patra: Steelers 24, 49ers 21
Of course, it's hard to determine exactly what the score will be, especially with unknown factors still out there, such as the return of defensive end Nick Bosa.
Still, it's definitely eye-catching to see a multitude of analysts select the Steelers as an upset candidate in Week 1.
The 49ers and Steelers will face off next Sunday, with kickoff slated for 10 A.M. Pacific.
Written By:
Writer/Reporter for 49ers Webzone
All articles by Rohan Chakravarthi
Rohan Chakravarthi
Writer/Reporter for 49ers Webzone
All articles by Rohan Chakravarthi
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