MNF: Steelers vs. Giants odds, picks & predictions (Sept. 14)

As is tradition during the opening week of the NFL season, we will have two match-ups for Monday Night Football with the Pittsburgh Steelers facing the New York Giants, followed by the Tennessee Titans taking on the Denver Broncos.

Join as now as we break down the first game of the night. Click here to read our detailed analysis of Tennessee vs. Denver.

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Giants, 7:10 p.m. ET, ESPN

Big Ben returns

The Steelers’ season was derailed last year when Ben Roethlisberger went down in the second game of the season with an elbow injury. They were able to salvage their season and fight for a playoff spot, but they lost their final three games to end those chances. Now, Big Ben returns and the Steelers will have their sights set on postseason play.

Pittsburgh's defense is elite, and with 10 of their eleven starters returning there should be little drop-off. Minkah Fitzpatrick anchors a great secondary, while Bud Dupree and T.J Watt lead a ferocious pass rush that should cause problems for the Giants’ passing attack. However, questions abound as to whether Roethlisberger will have enough weapons to utilize on the offensive side of the ball.

Jones came on strong at the end of 2019

Speaking of the Giants’ offense, Daniel Jones took major steps forward towards the end of the season, throwing for 300 or more yards in three of his last five games. He also had three games of at least four touchdowns with no interceptions from week eight on.

Jones has one of the top running backs in the NFL behind him in Saquon Barkley, and Golden Tate provides a major weapon in the passing game when healthy (which is something to keep an eye on, as he may miss the game). He also has Jason Garrett calling plays for him, which should help his growth even more.

Expect a low scoring affair

The Giants’ defense should be improved from last year’s poor showing, but it may not be enough to get them a win to open the season. However, while the Steelers should win, I like it to be right on the spread. Avoid that number, and look for the Steelers to do enough to take this one in a low scoring affair, as the under has hit in their last three meetings.

Score Prediction: Pittsburgh Steelers 23, New York Giants 17

NFL pick: Under 46 points