PITTSBURGH — The current season has demonstrated that the Pittsburgh Steelers possess the potential to perform at a Super Bowl caliber, particularly on defense. However, they also exhibit the ability to appear as one of the league”s weaker teams, sometimes showcasing both extremes within the same game. This inconsistency characterizes the NFL, but the Steelers” fluctuations seem more pronounced than those of many other teams.
Very few franchises can reach the defensive heights the Steelers achieved in their recent victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Conversely, numerous teams can reach the dismal lows the Steelers encountered in the second half against the Green Bay Packers and throughout their match against the Cincinnati Bengals. This pattern is likely a defining aspect of the team that will not change soon.
The offense, while not strong enough to lead the team consistently, can still secure victories if the defense performs as it did against the Colts. Aaron Rodgers has managed to elevate the overall performance of the offense beyond its individual capabilities, but the unit lacks explosive potential, which limits its effectiveness. Therefore, while the offense can produce 20 to 24 points in a game, it is unlikely to be the driving force for success.
This season”s outcomes will largely depend on the defense. In the past, there were years when Ben Roethlisberger could rescue the defense with his offensive prowess. It was crucial for players like T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Jalen Ramsey, and Cam Heyward to excel during the Colts game, as their impactful plays were instrumental in the win.
The Steelers” defense thrives on the performances of its stars, who possess the ability to alter the course of a game. For instance, Watt”s crucial strip sack of Daniel Jones was pivotal in changing the momentum against the Colts. With Ramsey now playing safety, he is expected to contribute more significantly from various positions on the field. Highsmith, who had previously been largely unnoticed this season, made a significant impact with two sacks and three tackles for loss, marking a return to form that had been missing for some time.
Although players like Payton Wilson and Patrick Queen also made notable contributions, the Steelers will rely on their star players to perform at their best. Recent challenges have arisen during games when these stars have failed to shine, resulting in disappointing performances against teams like the Packers and Bengals.
If the defensive stars consistently show up, the Steelers have the potential for significant success and can compete against any opponent. The critical question now is whether the performance against the Colts was a mere anomaly or the beginning of a sustained improvement. Moreover, the coaching staff”s strategic adjustments during the Colts game highlighted their ability to adapt and surprise opponents, which needs to be a continuing strategy.
As the Steelers” defense had become somewhat predictable, implementing new tactics each week could unleash the full potential of their star players. There is no doubt that the Steelers are among the top contenders in the AFC, capable of competing with any playoff team they may encounter. Ultimately, the effectiveness of the defense will determine their success, relying heavily on the performance of their standout players.
