Pittsburgh Review

The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into the playoffs on a challenging note, following a four-game losing streak. Their recent performance has raised concerns as they managed only six touchdowns in those games and failed to score more than 20 points in any of them. The defense has also seen a decline in its play-making abilities, leaving the team with little momentum except for their standout placekicker.

Despite these setbacks, the Steelers have secured their spot in the Super Wild Card Weekend, which will feature games from January 11 to January 13. Their playoff journey began on the same weekend that marked the start of their losing streak.

In their final regular-season game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium, the Steelers faced an opportunity to regain form against a team fighting for its own playoff chances. Previously defeating the Bengals 44-38 on December 1, this rematch was anticipated as winnable. However, it turned out differently as the Steelers' offense struggled significantly.

During three quarters of play, Pittsburgh's offense managed only seven first downs and 91 total net yards. Wide receivers were unable to make significant catches, with George Pickens and Calvin Austin III failing to capitalize on opportunities. Even Pat Freiermuth missed a crucial catch that could have set up Chris Boswell for a potential game-winning field goal.

Defensively, while improved from previous games, the Steelers couldn't decisively impact the outcome against Cincinnati's strong offensive lineup featuring Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins. The Bengals scored one touchdown in four red-zone attempts but maintained control with significant time of possession.

Quarterback comparisons highlighted Joe Burrow's efficiency over Wilson's struggles. Burrow completed 77.1% of his passes and effectively utilized his tight ends to maintain possession for extended periods. In contrast, Wilson completed just 54.8% of his passes as drops plagued Pittsburgh's offensive efforts.

Despite ending their regular season with a loss to Cincinnati (19-17), there are elements for Pittsburgh to build upon defensively and special teams-wise ahead of facing either Houston or Baltimore during Wild Card Weekend.

Steelers' defensive leader Cam Heyward expressed confidence: "I'm confident... There is belief in the group... We're in the dance." He emphasized focusing on each game individually and improving team mistakes swiftly since future success depends on it.

The Steelers now face an opportunity in postseason play where preparation and performance will be crucial determinants of their progress.