As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for their transatlantic showdown in Dublin, Ireland, against the Minnesota Vikings, the team is riding high with a 2-1 record after victories over the New York Jets and New England Patriots in the opening weeks of the 2025 NFL season. However, the challenge awaiting them in Week 4 is daunting—not just because of the jetlag and unfamiliar surroundings of an international game, but because of a resurgent Vikings squad led by the dynamic Carson Wentz.
Coming off a jaw-dropping 48-10 rout of the Cincinnati Bengals, the Vikings are brimming with confidence. Wentz, the former No. 2 overall pick, showcased his arm strength and veteran poise, throwing for 173 yards and two touchdowns in the blowout win. With J.J. McCarthy sidelined for a second consecutive week due to an ankle injury, Wentz has seized the opportunity to remind the NFL of his elite potential, making him a focal point for Pittsburgh’s vaunted defense.
T.J. Watt Sounds the Alarm on Wentz’s Threat
Superstar linebacker T.J. Watt, a former Defensive Player of the Year, knows the Steelers’ defense will have its hands full trying to contain Minnesota’s high-octane offense. During Monday’s media availability, Watt didn’t mince words when asked about Wentz’s skill set.
“He’s a mobile guy with above-the-neck smarts,” Watt said. “He’s been doing this for a while, and he’s got a lively arm. He can make any throw he wants. He was a top guy for a reason at his best, and it’s going to be a real challenge for us.”
Watt, who has already notched two sacks and a forced fumble through the first three games of the season, will be the linchpin of Pittsburgh’s efforts to disrupt Wentz’s rhythm. The Steelers’ defense, known for its relentless pressure, will need to be at its best to slow down a Vikings offense that just erupted for 48 points. Watt’s ability to chase down Wentz, who has shown he can escape the pocket and extend plays, could be the difference in this high-stakes clash.
Aaron Rodgers: From Stellar Debut to Dublin Redemption
On the offensive side, Aaron Rodgers has been a revelation for the Steelers since joining the team. His Pittsburgh tenure kicked off with a statement performance, torching his former team, the New York Jets, with four touchdown passes in Week 1. The display silenced doubters who questioned whether the four-time NFL MVP still had his magic touch after a rocky stint in New York.
However, Rodgers hit a speed bump in Week 2 against the Seattle Seahawks, where he threw two interceptions and completed just 54.6% of his passes in a lackluster offensive showing. The veteran quarterback bounced back in Week 3 against the Patriots, throwing two touchdowns and one interception while guiding the Steelers to a gritty victory, despite totaling only 136 passing yards. That win has given Pittsburgh momentum as they head to Dublin, but they’ll need Rodgers to rediscover his Week 1 form to keep pace with a Vikings team that’s hitting its stride.
As of now, the Vikings hold a slight edge in the betting odds, favored by 2.5 points. With injuries and other factors causing spreads to shift throughout the week, there’s a chance the line could swing in Pittsburgh’s favor. For now, though, Rodgers and the Steelers are underdogs in this international matchup, adding extra intrigue to an already compelling contest.
The stage is set for a thrilling battle in Dublin, where the Steelers’ defense, led by T.J. Watt’s relentless pursuit, will look to rattle Carson Wentz and derail Minnesota’s offensive juggernaut. Meanwhile, Rodgers will aim to outduel his counterpart and prove that Pittsburgh’s early-season success is no fluke. With both teams hungry for a statement win, this transatlantic tilt promises to deliver fireworks.