When Andrew Luck shocked the NFL world with his retirement in the offseason, many thought the Indianapolis Colts were left for dead. But backup-turned starter Jacoby Brissett has been terrific, and Indy leads the AFC South.

The Colts play the Pittsburgh Steelers in week 9, a contest that can't be overlooked. The Steelers can be sneakily tough, so the Colts have to be ready for a battle in Heinz Field.

Here are three keys to victory for the Colts during their matchup with the Steelers:

3. Protect Jacoby Brissett

The Steelers' biggest strength is their defense. The heart of that defense is clearly the front seven. Outside linebacker TJ Watt is having a career year with six sacks. Defensive end Cameron Hayward, a longtime Steeler stalwart, has another 4.5 sacks. The Colts offensive line has been fantastic, but t has to continue its performance.

Brissett is completing a measly 32% of passes when pressured, a figure that ranks 23rd in the league. In order for Brissett to comfortably lead the offense, he has to be kept clean. The young signal-caller is notoriously good against the blitz, but the Steelers don't need to blitz. If a four-man rush disrupts Brissett, the Steelers take the advantage.

2. Win the turnover battle

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This one is both crucial and very achievable. Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph isn't exactly safe with the football, as he turned it over against the lowly Miami Dolphins in week 8. The Indianapolis defense is significantly better than the Dolphins', so a couple of turnovers should be in the books. The other half of this is the Colts' offense.

Brissett is very safe with the football, so this one should be a lock. Turnovers are key in keeping momentum on the road, especially in an environment as hostile as Heinz Field. More importantly, the team that wins the turnover battle usually comes out on top.

1. Shut down the Pittsburgh running backs

This one is another pretty obvious one. Opposing quarterback Rudolph has been shaky at best, often relying on his running backs to create on the ground and through the air. It seems that coach Mike Tomlin game plans the offense around hiding his quarterback, which isn't easy.

For the last several weeks, Pittsburgh has leaned heavily on the run and used running back James Connor in the passing game. There are lots of short swings, screens, and check-downs. If the Colts can take these simple plays away, they can expose the weak link at quarterback. Is Mason Rudolph is asked to drop back and win this game, the Colts have to like their chances.