Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
This Sunday, many teams have nothing to play for but pride and jobs. The Steelers are fortunate not to be one of those teams. While the Steelers do not control their own destiny, a win is necessary in order for their playoff hopes to continue.
Of course the Steelers are in need of a late Christmas present from the Chiefs, Bengals, and Jets. At this point, all that most Steelers fans can focus on is whether or not the Steelers can avoid a two season playoff drought. I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but unless Santa comes late for the Steelers, don’t look for the Steelers to be playing any January football.
But, Steeler Nation, may I suggest you sit back and smell the roses for a few moments.
If the Steelers win on Sunday (which there is a strong chance they beat Cleveland) then they will be 8-8. While it wouldn’t be a winning season, it also wouldn’t be a losing season. Yes, I understand it is Super Bowl or bust in Pittsburgh, but think about it: The last time the Steelers had a losing season, Ben Roethlisberger was still in college, and old Troy Polamalu was a rookie.
Think about it Steelers fans, the Steelers haven’t had a losing season in 10 years. Many teams in the NFL wish they could say that. A good number of teams haven’t had a winning season in several years.
I understand it doesn’t change anything as far as the 2014 playoffs go, but with a streak like that, it definitely makes the Steelers easy to cheer for.