Steelers vs. Chiefs: A Winning Game Plan
By Logan Bryson
2014 Season: Steelers win 20-12 in Pittsburgh
This Week 16 victory ultimately helped the Steelers clinch their first playoff berth since the “Tebow Game” and additionally knocked the Chiefs out of playoff contention.
While this game took place over two seasons ago, Pittsburgh’s defensive keys to success in this victory were not overly different from their current winning game plan.
Red Zone Success
Despite giving up a ton of yards through the air defensively, Pittsburgh won this game by making red zone defensive stops. Perhaps what is most shocking from this game was Pittsburgh’s ability to hold Kansas City out of the end zone in 6 red zone trips. The Chiefs were only able to come away with 4 field goals, a forced fumble, and a failed 4th down conversion. On the offensive side of the ball, Pittsburgh went 2-4 in their red zone trips, coming away with two touchdowns (one to Bell and Brown each) and two field goals.
Pressure with the Pass Rush
Additionally, Pittsburgh generated a ton of pressure defensively, racking up 6 sacks on Alex Smith. The primary contributors to Pittsburgh’s pass rush were Cam Heyward, James Harrison, and the now retired Jason Worilds. I expect Pittsburgh’s recently red hot pass rush to continue this weekend as they have managed to terrorize opposing quarterbacks for 9 sacks the past two games.
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Lesson
I fully anticipate the Steelers to take a similar approach in their upcoming playoff matchup against the Chiefs. Pittsburgh will give up the underneath passes as long as they can limit the Chief’s explosive plays and keep them out of the end zone. If Pittsburgh can stop Kansas City in the red zone, and get to Alex Smith for some drive ending sacks, I like their chances.