The Pittsburgh Steelers travel to Indianapolis to face the Colts in Week 4, but despite their recent troubles, the players in Indy are optimistic.
In the NFL, it’s nearly a given that the Steelers’ support base will attend whatever game they play. Steelers Nation may be the best crowd in football, and the expectations in Indianapolis are no different.
But Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin is sending an early and direct message. Speaking with the media, he made it clear to Pittsburgh that Lucas Oil Stadium is unique, and that the players will be entering “their home” in week four.
“I know the Pittsburgh fans, they are going to try and come in here,” Franklin told the crowd. “They enjoy travelling, so I’m looking forward to us fighting back. When we face Pittsburgh, we are always up against a talented and competitive club. We know what kind of football they prefer to play, but it’s our place, and we set the rules.”
The Steelers have filled their two road arenas this season, with head coach Mike Tomlin and linebacker T.J. Watt thanking fans for their support in Atlanta and Denver. Now they have a six-hour drive to Indianapolis, which won’t feel as far as a cross-country flight to Mile High.
Despite the caution, the Colts may anticipate black and gold to pack the stadium. Terrible Towels rarely fly across a place when the Steelers are playing, and with a 3-0 football team with Franklin disputing their presence, it may be much stronger.
This will be Pittsburgh’s first meeting with both Anthony Richardson and Jonathan Taylor. Even though Indianapolis has struggled early in the season, the defense will need support from the crowd to raddle the Colts players in Week 4.
