A fascinating AFC clash awaits as the Indianapolis Colts head to Acrisure Stadium to battle the Pittsburgh Steelers in what promises to be a defining Week 9 matchup. The Colts enter riding high with an explosive offense that's lighting up scoreboards at 33.2 points per game, while an inconsistent Pittsburgh looks to find consistency on both sides of the ball.
With both teams jockeying for playoff positioning, this Week 9 showdown features elite talent on both sides, including Colts running back Jonathan Taylor fresh off a three-touchdown performance and Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers looking to connect with DK Metcalf against a slowly-declining Indianapolis defense.
While Indy deserves to be celebrated for a strong start, the reality is the pass defense has yielded at least 258 passing yards in each of the last three weeks, with that number hit by Cam Ward and the lowly Titans just last Sunday.
The stage is set for a classic battle of contrasting styles that could swing AFC standings.
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Colts Steelers Week 9 NFL bets
Date: Sunday, November 2, 2025
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. EST
Venue: Acrisure Stadium — Pittsburgh, PA
The NFL betting market has positioned this as a high-scoring affair with the visiting Colts favored despite playing on the road.
- Moneyline: Colts (-166) | Steelers (+140)
- Spread: Colts -3 (-115) | Steelers +3 (-105)
- Total: Over/Under 50.5 (Over -118 | Under -102)
Betting odds courtesy of DraftKings.
Indianapolis enters as a 3-point road favorite, reflecting their potent offensive attack that has dominated throughout the season. The total is set at a lofty 50.5 points, suggesting oddsmakers expect the Colts' high-octane scoring to challenge Pittsburgh's typically stout defense, one that absolutely did not show up over the final 30 minutes last Sunday. However, the Steelers as home underdogs present intriguing value for those believing their disciplined approach can control tempo and limit explosive plays.
Colts-Steelers: Key Stats
This Week 9 battle showcases a classic philosophical divide between explosive offense and methodical execution. The numbers paint a clear picture of two teams built differently but equally dangerous.
Offensively, Indianapolis brings one of the league's most explosive units, averaging 33.2 points and 385.2 total yards per game. Their third-down efficiency stands out at 45.3%, showing their ability to sustain drives and wear down defenses. Pittsburgh takes a more deliberate approach, posting 24.7 points and 297.1 yards per game, but they're lethal when it matters most with an incredible 73.7% red zone touchdown rate that outpaces the Colts' solid 68.4%.
Defensively, both teams generate consistent pressure with Indianapolis holding a slight edge in sacks (23 to 22) and a significant advantage in takeaways with 10 interceptions compared to Pittsburgh's 5.
The key battle centers on whether the Colts' high-volume attack can overwhelm the Steelers' disciplined style. Jonathan Taylor enters red-hot after his three-touchdown explosion last week, while Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf connected for a score in their recent outing and will test a Colts defense that's shown some vulnerabilities lately. This sets up a fascinating chess match between contrasting approaches.
Colts-Steelers: Best Sunday picks
Our Fearless Forecast: Steelers +3 (-105)
While Indianapolis brings the flashier numbers, the value lies with the home underdog in this AFC battle. Pittsburgh's ability to control game tempo and execute in crucial moments gives them a clear path to cover the spread.
The Steelers might not match the Colts' yardage totals, but they won't need to. Their clinical efficiency in the red zone tells the story – that elite 73.7% touchdown rate proves they can capitalize against any opponent. Facing a Colts defense trending downward, Pittsburgh's disciplined offense should find scoring opportunities and keep this game within a field goal throughout.
Key Player Prop: Aaron Rodgers Over 1.5 Passing TDs (-131)
To match an Indianapolis offense averaging 33.2 points per game, the Steelers will need their veteran quarterback to deliver through the air. This isn't a game where Pittsburgh can rely solely on ground control – they'll be forced into aggressive passing situations. With the Colts' defense showing recent vulnerabilities -- they yielded 320 passing yards to Jacoby Brissett three weeks ago and had trouble slowing down Cam Ward at times last week despite yielding 14 points -- expect Rodgers to find receivers like DK Metcalf for multiple scores as the Steelers fight to match Indianapolis's firepower.
The home crowd at Acrisure Stadium and Pittsburgh's knack for finishing drives make them a live underdog worth backing in this high-scoring affair, particularly after coming off a disheartening second-half against the Packers on Sunday Night Football last week.
Colts-Steelers: Key players to watch
Both teams enter with notable injury concerns that could significantly impact Sunday's outcome, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Indianapolis Colts
- DT Grover Stewart (Foot): Questionable
- DE Samson Ebukam (Knee): Out
- WR Anthony Gould (Knee): Out
The potential absence of defensive tackle Grover Stewart and defensive end Samson Ebukam poses significant problems for a Colts defense already trending downward. Missing these key pieces could open running lanes and give Aaron Rodgers more pocket time.
Pittsburgh Steelers
- LB Cole Holcomb (Illness): Out
- WR Scotty Miller (Finger): Out
- S Jabrill Peppers (Quadricep): Out
The absence Cole Holcomb could weaken their defensive front seven, while Darius Slay's availability remains questionable amid recent trade speculation surrounding the veteran cornerback.