For what feels like forever, the Pittsburgh Steelers put two good games together back-to-back. They built off the issues from the Ravens game and overcame a slow start to the game en route to the big win.
They officially eliminated the Dolphins from the playoff picture and can now set their eyes on a tough Lions team next week. It also keeps Pittsburgh in the driver's seat of the AFC North, and thus a playoff spot.
It was a complete win this week. The defense did more than enough to stifle the Dolphins' offense. The run game came alive while the passing game was efficient.
The Pittsburgh Steelers found a slew of winners in Monday Night Victory
Steelers Winner: D.K. Metcalf
While the stats weren’t gaudy, D.K. Metcalf made big plays when it counted. From his early long reception to his physical touchdown, he was a major factor this week despite limited touches. It was a great game for the Steelers' top dog.
Steelers Winner: Jonnu Smith
I have put Jonnu Smith on the losers' list multiple times. This feels like a cop out, but his touchdown run was impressive. No, he hasn’t had a great season overall, and his night was still relatively quiet, but Smith finally flashed some of the talent we were hoping he would have.
Steelers Winner: Dylan Cook
Talk about a massive night for Dylan Cook. He wasn’t talked about much, and for a backup left tackle, that is a good thing. He faced a veteran with a lot of experience, as well, in Bradley Chubb. The edge rushers get better in the coming weeks, but this was a great game for the current starter.
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Steelers Loser: Tight End Coverage
The defense as a whole did a great job this week, but when the Dolphins did make a play, it came from their tight end room. Yes, some of those successes came late in the game, where the defense shifted to more prevent defense. That said, this tight end room was pretty weak, so seeing the success was not great.
Steelers Winner: Asante Samuel
It feels like Asante Samuel is going to be a rare mid-season addition that actually helps a defense. He has been steady since getting called up to the active roster and added an interception to his resume. A strong week for the new face in the secondary.
Steelers Winner: Kenneth Gainwell
Another week of strong running from Kenneth Gainwell. He has proven to be a versatile chess piece for this offense, and at times, he is a massive boost for the offense. He has earned every snap he is getting.
Steelers Loser: Jaylen Warren
I am openly a massive Jaylen Warren fan, but this week was a tough one. Yes, he ran hard and found some success as a receiver, but he was clearly outperformed by Gainwell. It feels like Warren is losing his grip as the starter.
Steelers Winner: Aaron Rodgers
It wasn’t flashy, but it didn’t need to be. Aaron Rodgers was sharp on every pass once again this week. He is playing with more confidence, and it is a huge boost for this offense. He isn’t a true gunslinger anymore, but he is playing like a great game manager.