Steelers in the Playoffs: Why This Team Might Be More Dangerous Than You Think!

The Pittsburgh Steelers know how to keep their fans on edge. A roaring 10-3 start had the city dreaming of Super Bowl glory. Then, a brutal three-game losing streak knocked the wind out of their sails, leaving some fans reliving the nightmares of 2020. But don’t count the Steelers out yet. Despite recent struggles, this team has the tools to make noise in the playoffs.

1. No Major Injuries

Injuries can derail even the best teams, but the Steelers have stayed relatively healthy. Unlike the 2020 squad that lost Bud Dupree late in the season, this team’s core remains intact. Joey Porter Jr. suffered a knee injury recently, but he’s expected back for the playoffs.

The Steelers endured a grueling stretch of three games in 11 days but emerged largely unscathed. Now, they have 11 days to rest and reset before facing Cincinnati in Week 18. That time off is crucial, both physically and mentally, giving the team a chance to recharge and refocus for the postseason grind.

2. Harris And Warren: A Dominant Duo

Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris have emerged as one of the league’s best running back tandems. Against the Chiefs, they combined for 145 rushing yards and 202 total rushing yards as a team. Harris, now a four-time 1,000-yard rusher, thrives in late-season games, while Warren’s quickness and versatility add another dimension to the offense.

Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris (Image Credit: Getty Images)

This dynamic duo gives the Steelers a reliable ground game- something every contender needs in January. Harris’s contract situation provides extra motivation, and his knack for grinding out tough yards makes him invaluable.

3. A Talented Defense

The Steelers’ defense, anchored by T.J. Watt, remains one of the NFL’s most talented units. Despite recent struggles, this group dominated during the team’s 10-3 start, allowing just 18 points per game and forcing 25 turnovers.

Injuries in the secondary hurt them during the losing streak, but the upcoming rest period could help the unit regain its form. With Watt, Cameron Heyward, Alex Highsmith, and Minkah Fitzpatrick leading the charge, this defense has the potential to take over games. Improved communication and trust will be key, and the team has time to address those issues.

4. Chris Boswell: An Elite Kicker

Chris Boswell might be the most clutch kicker in the NFL. He’s hit 93% of his field goals this season, including an impressive 12-of-14 from 50 yards or more. Boswell is also a perfect 17-of-17 on playoff field goals in his career.

The Steelers have leaned on Boswell’s consistency in tight games before, and his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations could prove invaluable in the postseason.

5. Russell Wilson’s Experience

Yes, Wilson has struggled recently, but his leadership and playoff experience can’t be ignored. He’s been to the mountaintop before as a Super Bowl champion and nine-time Pro Bowler. Wilson’s ability to bounce back from adversity could be the X-factor the Steelers need.

Wilson’s recent turnovers may serve as a wake-up call. Expect him to recalibrate his decision-making, especially with a potent rushing attack supporting him. His deep-ball accuracy adds a layer of unpredictability that defenses must respect, and his playoff poise could guide the Steelers through tough moments.

6. Winnable Wild Card Matchups

The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently slated to face the Texans in the Wild Card round, a team trending downward after a 5-1 start. Houston’s defense has allowed the most passing touchdowns in the league, and their offense is reeling after losing Tank Dell.

Even if Pittsburgh drops to the sixth seed, a matchup with Baltimore isn’t unwinnable. The Steelers have already beaten the Ravens this year and are 4-2 against Lamar Jackson. Pittsburgh could pull off an upset with a strong running game, a stingy defense, and Wilson’s leadership.

The Steelers may have hit a rough patch, but their season isn’t over. With a healthy roster, a potent rushing attack, a defense capable of dominance, a clutch kicker, and a quarterback who knows how to win in January, this team has the ingredients to make a run. Don’t throw in the Terrible Towel just yet- these Steelers still have plenty of fight left.