NFL Power Rankings Wrap-up: Pittsburgh Steelers Week 17
The Steelers did everything they needed to in taking care of the Chiefs at Heinz Field. Once again, they controlled the line of scrimmage and kept the Chiefs out of the end zone. Jamaal Charles was held to 29 yards, a season low. James Harrison looked 26, not 36 on Sunday. It certainly seems they’re finding their stride at the right time. Here is how the Steelers win played in the NFL power rankings:
"They are one of the league’s hottest teams and can win the division by beating the Bengals at home. That offense is special. – Pete Prisco (CBS Sports, Ranked #11)"
I would have liked to see more from the offense against the Chiefs, but it was all I could do to not have a coronary event when Ben Roethlisberger went down with a knee injury. Thankfully he was right back in there.
"Pittsburgh is in the playoffs for the first time since 2011. The Steelers can take it a step further and win the AFC North by beating Cincinnati in Week 17. – ESPN.com (Ranked #10)"
It all comes down to this. A win at home Sunday night brings legitimacy to the Steelers entire season.
"Dec 21, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin (left) talks with cornerback William Gay (22) against the Kansas City Chiefs during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. The Steelers won 20-12. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY SportsOn a day when the run game was nowhere to be found and Ben Roethlisberger was not throwing the ball all over the park, Dick LeBeau‘s defense made many timely plays. Seemed like every time Alex Smith put a drive together, it would stall like a 1991 Topaz, causing Cairo Santos to trot out for another field goal. Outstanding pressure, Pittsburgh put on Smith. I just typed that sentence like Yoda. Dick LeBeau is kind of like Yoda. OK, let’s move on. – Elliott Harrison (NFL.com, Ranked #10)"
If he’s trying to say that Dick LeBeau is really old but a master I’ll take it. I had my doubts earlier in the season but some of the young guys are starting to get it, and the defensive line has come together as a unit.
"Led by their pass rush, the defense continues to show signs of improvement heading into the postseason. With one of the most balanced offenses in the NFL to accompany it, the Steelers could be poised for a run. –Dan Schneier (FoxSports, Ranked #12)"
Put me down as “cautiously optimistic” right now. They look really good and I can only hope it continues.
"The Pirates had made the playoffs twice since the Steelers’ last postseason trip, so Mike Tomlin and Co. restored some order to the Pittsburgh sports universe by clinching a spot. Now comes a chance to wrap the AFC North and host a playoff game. Not bad considering the panic following a 3-3 start. –Chris Burke (SI.com, Ranked #11)"
Every season Job One is to win the division. After all the turmoil, the Steelers are right on the cusp. Time to shine!
Let’s go Steelers!