Pittsburgh Steelers: 10 wins – 7 losses, 3rd in AFC North, 7th in AFC
Two years after the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger, the Pennsylvania franchise continued its reconstruction in 2023, hoping to see progression from quarterback Kenny Pickett during this season.
If the quarterback's performance was not up to par, it was a whole young and enthusiastic group that was able to lead this team to the playoffs. This qualification was not the primary objective, but it is a first step which will allow a group to be rewarded and to gain experience.
Despite seventh place in the AFC, can the Steelers surprise in the playoffs?
How did they get there?
If Pittsburgh has a record of 10 wins and 7 losses, it is mainly thanks to its iron defense. She held the Steelers during the majority of the meetings waiting for an offensive flash. The offense has been a disappointment this year and the firing of offensive coordinator Matt Canada was just a blip in the relatively flat EKG of this area.
However, with a 7-4 record in week 12, the Steelers could already hope for a place in the playoffs. But unexpected losses against the Cardinals and the Patriots and a negative dynamic seemed to have weighed down the Steel City's season.
Mike Tomlin's men were able to raise their heads to finish with three victories with their third quarterback, Mason Rudolph. The offense was driven by the ground game against the Seahawks in week 17 with a season record (468 yards).
Pittsburgh can still thank the Jaguars for their defeat against the Titans last week, which allowed the Steelers to validate their ticket to the playoffs.
The key player: Najee Harris (RB)
With Mason Rudolph at the helm, the ground game should allow the Steelers to advance in attack and preserve the defense. Lead head of the running backs committee, Najee Harris finished the season with 1,035 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. Despite a sluggish start to the season where he was unable to find space, Harris found momentum at the best time. He remains in two games with more than 100 yards for three touchdowns.
In addition, Harris can count on the rotation with Jaylen Warren, the second running back, who has been rather consistent throughout the season.
Injured players
The big absence for Pittsburgh is obviously that of edge rusher TJ Watt. Out in the match against the Ravens, Watt would suffer from a sprain of the medial collateral ligament of the knee and will be absent at least against the Bills. Franchise MVP, league leader with 19 sacks and in the running for Defender of the Year, his impact when he's on the field is major for the defense.
A defense that is still awaiting the return of another executive, safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. A return to the defensive backfield which would be significant against quarterbacks like Josh Allen (Bills). Notable long-time absences are also on the defensive side with Kwon Alexander (LB), Cole Holcomb (LB) and Keanu Neal (S).
Why are they going to go through with it?
The Pittsburgh Steelers' strong point remains defense, always defense. Despite the absences, there are still experienced players in this squad Cameron Heyward (DT), Alex Highsmith (LB) and rookies who are having a good first season Nick Herbig (LB) or Joey Porter Jr. (CB). And if the Steelers make it past the first round, a return of TJ Watt would provide additional motivation.
The Steelers have players who can produce big plays on defense, but also on offense. The franchise finished in fourth place in turnover differential with a record of +11. Even if the offense is on AC, players like George Pickens (WR), Diontae Johnson (WR), or Pat Freiermuth (TE) are capable of big gains at any time.
Mike Tomlin just finished his 17th regular season and none with a negative record. Currently, the head coach only has one championship ring, but he knows how to transmit his motivation to his squad to seek a second.
Why won't they go?
In Pittsburgh, one of the weakest points is the most important position, the quarterback. Confirmed by Mike Tomlin, Mason Rudolph will be the starter for the start of the playoffs. And even if the last three games with him have been more productive in attack, this sector offers no guarantees.
With an attack that fails to stay on the field, 17th in the league in time of possession, the defense risks tiring. The Steelers have conceded very few points, sixth in the league, but the defense allows a lot of yards. This could be prohibitive against Super Bowl contenders.
The seventh seat in the AFC promises the Steelers a tumultuous journey. If the confrontation against the Bills turns in favor of the yellow and black, they will have to face the Ravens in divisional round. The Baltimore franchise is one of the big favorites thanks to its consistency throughout the season and the quality of its squad. This classification will also impose an outdoor route. Even though Steelers fans may be all over the country, the “ terrible towel » will perhaps not be enough to wipe out the mood of the opposing supporters.
Prognosis
The Pittsburgh Steelers are going to be difficult to play against thanks to their defense. The Bills have good momentum, but do not dominate their opponents. In addition, they are accustomed to losing bullets. If Buffalo doesn't open the gap before the final quarter, they will expose themselves to a George Pickens blitz or a Najee Harris run. A defeat for Pittsburgh in wild card seems, however, logical.
If the first round leans in favor of the Steelers, the divisional round facing the rival from Baltimore will be on a whole new level. The Ravens have dominated the AFC this season and the Steelers only beat Maryland's B team by seven points in Week 18. Defeat in divisional round.
