Former NFL linebacker and ESPN analyst Bart Scott recently shared his thoughts on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Super Bowl aspirations, and it’s safe to say he’s not overly optimistic about their chances. As the Steelers find themselves amid a three-game losing streak, Scott’s assessment isn’t filled with hope, especially considering their recent struggles and playoff history under head coach Mike Tomlin.
The Steelers are in a precarious position heading into Week 18, where they will face the Cincinnati Bengals in a must-win game to solidify their playoff schedule. A win on Sunday would set the stage for a wildcard appearance, but their path to the postseason depends heavily on the outcome of the multiple games.
If both the Steelers and Ravens win, Pittsburgh will travel to face the Houston Texans, a team that’s struggled mightily in recent weeks, including an embarrassing loss on Christmas Day. If the Ravens lose and the Steelers win, Pittsburgh will host the Los Angeles Chargers in the first round of the playoffs. However, a loss to Cincinnati, coupled with a Chargers victory, would send the Steelers to Baltimore for a difficult matchup.
Despite the scenarios, Scott isn’t convinced that the Steelers will be able to make a deep playoff run. His skepticism stems from their history under Mike Tomlin, especially in the postseason.
“We’ve seen this the last four times Mike Tomlin has been in the postseason, he’s been one and done,” Scott said on ESPN’s Get Up. “I don’t see anything changing that unless they get the Houston Texans.”
Scott’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment of doubt about Pittsburgh’s ability to make a deep playoff push this year, particularly given the team’s inability to sustain the momentum they built earlier in the season.
Steelers must use Week 18 as a playoff game to jumpstart the postseason
The Steelers’ playoff hopes have been seriously derailed by their recent struggles, as they’ve failed to match the consistency that defined their early-season success. The defense, which had been a standout early on, has had its moments of vulnerability, and their offense has struggled to find its rhythm.
While the Steelers have a talented roster and a coach with extensive playoff experience, the lack of sustained excellence has left many, including Scott, questioning their viability as true Super Bowl contenders.
Nevertheless, the Steelers remain one of the most intriguing teams to watch as the playoffs near. They have a lot to prove and must show up, regardless of who their opponent is. The key for Pittsburgh is winning in Week 18.
The most important thing for Tomlin’s team right now is securing that crucial victory over the Bengals—anything less could mean the end of their season. For better or worse, the Steelers’ playoff fate rests on their performance in the final regular-season game.