November 12, 2012; Pittsburgh , PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Shaun Suisham (6) is congratulated by center Doug Legursky (64) after kicking the game-winning field goal against the Kansas City Chiefs during overtime of the game at Heinz Field. The Steelers wn the game, 16-13 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-US PRESSWIRE
I can’t admit that I saw much of the first half of the game due to school related things. But from what I saw in the second half, this was far from the Steelers we’ve grown accustomed to seeing this season.
In perhaps their worst showing of the season, the Steelers squeaked out a 16-13 win thanks in large part to a defense that took advantage poor quarterback play. The Steelers offense never looked in sync and the weather had to have been a factor. However, losing Ben Roethlisberger definitely put the Black and Gold at a disadvantage in the second half.
Another key factor to consider is the loss of Antonio Brown. Brown really is the new Hines Ward, a consistent option all over the field that the defense must prioritize. While Wallace and Sanders are each talented in their own rights, Brown has shown to this point he is the number one option.
Finally, give credit to Kansas City. They came ready to play and while they made a plethora of mistakes to show why they have just one win this season, they played until the final whistle and refused to be intimidated by the Steelers at home. Romeo Crennel brought those tough Browns teams mentality to KC.
There isn’t a lot more to be said because the game was so awful besides what Mike Tomlin will harp all week: “The standard is the standard.” The Steelers could be going into their game of the year without Antonio Brown, Troy Polamalu, Ryan Clark, and Ben Roethlisberger.
Yeah. Tat four point early line favoring the Steelers is about to change.
Tomlin and crew will preach that all that needs to happen for a win are guys playing “Steelers Football.” But as shown last night, it’s not that simple. The Steelers got their “yuck” game out of the way early. They’re going to need to hit the film tomorrow in order to truly be prepared for what lies ahead.