Everyone has been ragging on the Steelers' offense over the past several weeks... and for good reason. But the offense isn't the only problem plaguing this club. Their defensive counterparts have also been disappointing over their four-game losing streak. As they prepare for their playoff matchup against the Ravens today, no one is expecting Pittsburgh to make a substantial noise once the tournament commences.
Holding little to no expectations for the Steelers is fair after what we've witnessed recently. Russell Wilson and the offense have been putrid over their past four contests. Their highest scoring output during that time was 17 points, which they reached twice. Many want Justin Fields to start at quarterback as the overwhelming vitriol in Pittsburgh continues to worsen. This failed offense continues to be highlighted in the worst way.
Since the offense has been terrible, many have looked past the Steelers' defense in recent weeks. Yes, they have shown some glimpses of getting better, but they have also been a key cog in this losing streak.
Pittsburgh has not found ways to win games. Yes, they have set up their offense in good positions, but they refuse to close out games which is a big problem entering today's game. Still, it may not be their offense that lets them down.
Steelers' defense will become bigger disappointment then their offense
It is one thing to mention Mike Tomlin's failures in the playoffs over the past eight years. It is another when you look at how bad he is against franchise-level quarterback play. Those top players at the most important position in football have consistently beaten the breaks off of his defense. You can try to scapegoat through the defensive coordinator all you want, but the buck falls at Tomlin's feet.
When it comes to the Steelers offense, perhaps this four-game skid will do them some good. Perhaps they will be willing to change some of their play calling around after noticing their internal problems over the past handful of weeks. It could give them a spark and try a game plan that could lead them to victory. If they can keep drives going and get George Pickens a couple of deep balls, then they will be fine.
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Baltimore will be doing their best to run up the score early and often against the Steelers in this playoff battle. It will be up to Wilson and the company to weather the storm. In recent playoff games, Pittsburgh has quickly fallen into a hole early. They were never able to recover from those issues. They have an offense that has accomplished comebacks this year, but not against a team like the Ravens.
Could the Steelers' offense crumble and leave a goose egg on the scoreboard to end their year? Sure. Don't count out Wilson and company to be the reason Pittsburgh remains in this playoff fight. Defense is something that has started slowly in past playoff competitions, and they can't afford to do that this week. If they do, then Lamar Jackson and company will light them up.