Steelers WR George Pickens challenges Broncos defense: 'Hope they have their plan correct'

Much of the talk around the Pittsburgh Steelers' Week 2 matchup against the Denver Broncos has centered around whether quarterback Russell Wilson will get the chance at revenge after reaggravating his calf injury.

However, the difference between Pittsburgh coming away with its second win to open the regular season could be wide receiver George Pickens.

The former second-round pick had his way for most of the Steelers' Week 1 win against the Falcons, finishing the day with six catches for 85 yards. He could have had another catch that would have put him well over 100 yards receiving if it weren't for a controversial offensive pass interference call, too.

It could be more difficult for Pickens to have similar success this week as Denver has someone Atlanta doesn't: Former All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Patrick Surtain II.

Surtain, one of the best defenders in the NFL, was just paid as such with a four-year, $96 million contract extension . He backed it up last week when he followed Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf and held him to just three catches for 29 yards.

Pickens isn't worried, though.

"Just be myself, to be honest. I went up against Pat Surtain in college. So a lot of this stuff isn’t new for me," Pickens said . "He's just a good player, just like a lot of the other players in here. There's good players. I'm a good player. There's a lot of good players around the league."

Pickens doesn't lack for confidence, which he'll need lining up against a player of Surtain's caliber. He must back up his words with his play come Sunday, but seems ready for whatever the Broncos have cooked up for him.

"Just hope they have their plan correct," Pickens added . "I don't really know or care what they're gonna do."

As for Pittsburgh's plan on offense, it looks like quarterback Justin Fields is on track to start once again . Wilson was limited in Wednesday's practice as Fields continued to get reps as the starter.

Pickens believes having a full week's work with Fields should only help the offense's chances of success.

"Just all the guys coming together to make the plan go, to make the plays go because we really had more time before Week 1 than we have this week," Pickens finished .

Only time will tell which quarterback will officially be throwing Pickens the ball this week, but he's ready for Surtain or whatever Denver has in store.

All quotations obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted.