NPC’s “NFL Power Rankings Wrapup:” Pittsburgh Steelers, Week 12
Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
In an incredible turn of events, the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the NFC North-leading Detroit Lions on Sunday afternoon. Despite red zone struggles and a disastrous second quarter, Pittsburgh “nutted up” in the second half, emerged victorious, and improved their record to 4-6.
So how high did the Steelers actually climb this week in “NFL Power Rankings” around the country? Take a look below to find out, readers:
"Maybe NFL Network should consistently report on Ben Roethlisberger’s future every week for the rest of the season.-Mike Florio (Pro Football Talk, Ranked #21)"
As much of a douche-canoe as Florio is, I will say that I let out a hearty chuckle when I read his thoughts on the 4-6 Steelers. Roethlisberger played his best game of the year on Sunday, and also illustrated how moronic it would be for the franchise to trade him when he has so much productive football left in him.
"The Steelers have won three straight at home and are 4-2 in their last six games. I wouldn’t count them out just yet.-Brian Billick (FOX Sports.com, Ranked #18)"
It’s a shame that the Steelers “crapped the bed” against some less-than-formidable foes like Tennessee, Minnesota, and Oakland earlier this season. Otherwise, they could be in much better shape for a postseason push. Sadly, they’re 4-6 and must build off of their recent 4-2 stretch to scratch and claw their way back into playoff contention.
"Watching the Lions game, is there any doubt the talk of a Ben Roethlisberger trade is just plain stupid. They are still breathing.-Pete Prisco (CBS Sports.com, Ranked #24)"
The Steelers will need to rely on their franchise-quarterback to carry them down the stretch. At 4-6 this team is still technically “alive,” but they will need “Big Ben” to raise his game and continue to play lights out if they wish to qualify for the postseason.
"Ben Roethlisberger was sacked once in 41 dropbacks (2.4 percent) against Detroit’s four-man rush Sunday, an improvement on his 7.3 percent season average.–ESPN.com (Power Rankings, Ranked #19)"
The offensive line did a solid job on Sunday as “Big Ben” was rarely harassed when he dropped back to pass. Granted, most of that had to do with the fact that his receivers were getting open and the no-huddle attack did a lot to limit Detroit’s pass rush. However, kudos must go to the offensive line for their collective effort in a must-win game.
"Pittsburgh’s defense has been middling this season, there’s no question about that. Tell you what, though: After allowing 27 points to the Lions in the second quarter alone on Sunday, coordinator Dick LeBeau’s unit shut Detroit out all the way home. Wild card? Still doubtful.-Elliot Harrison (NFL.com, Ranked #25)"
As nice as it was to see the Steelers win last weekend, the fact that their defense surrendered 27 points in less than 15 minutes is a definite cause for concern. Granted, their postseason hopes are still alive. Yet I do not believe that this team can even start thinking “playoffs” until they are at least 6-6.
Stats & Contract Info. Provided By: ESPN.com, Steelers.com , Spotrac, and Pro Football Reference
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