4 biggest causes of concern for Steelers vs. Cowboys Week 9

Falling for the trap

While all of the previous causes for concern are valid, they all more or less play into the idea of the Steelers falling for a trap game. The classic “playing down to your opponent” has been a problem for the Steelers, yet it hasn’t really reared its head this year. That said, this game on paper seems like the type that the Steelers could relax for. If they do, they could be caught off guard which could result in the first loss of the season.

While simply saying a game is a trap game is a weak concern, it is valid based on the Steelers track record with games like this. Riding high after beating the Ravens, this team may look at this week as a guaranteed victory. In doing so, they may be ill-prepared to compete with a team that despite a litany of injuries, still has some serious weapons.

Giving in to the trap idea is going to be key this week. The Steelers must prepare for this game like they usually do with little thought of how easy this game could potentially be. The goal shouldn’t just be to win this game, it should be for Rudolph to take the charge late in the game due to it being such a blowout. In order to achieve this, the game plan must be sound, and the team has to be well prepared.

If on the flip side, the Steelers go into this game expecting an easy win, there could be some disappointment and struggles when the Cowboys put up a fight. While a 7-1 record is still impressive, suffering your first loss to a team in as bad of shape as the Cowboys would be a major blow. Assuming the Steeler prepare, this week should be relatively easy. That said, if the team comes out conservative and sluggish, the trap game could be on for Sunday.

Finding causes for concern this week is easier said than done, as the Steelers seemed poised to improve their record to 8-0. That said, no game is a given in the NFL. If the Steelers don’t heed these concerns, week nine could end in a loss of the team.