The Steelers have understandably been big underdogs this week heading into their playoff game. While the team has made some strides in the right direction in recent weeks, the Bills are still one of the best teams in the league. Even with their up-and-down play, they boast a top quarterback and a fast-moving offense.
That said, it seems as though the Steelers may be given a gift this week in their game. As has been well-documented, Buffalo is set to get hammered with snow this weekend. While it seems like the worst of the storm will be taking place over the early portion of the weekend, it still will be inclement weather.
Cold and Buffalo are synonymous in the winter, so that shouldn’t be the biggest issue. What could be is the snow and wind. Lake effect snow is no joke in Buffalo, and if it is still coming down when the playoff game starts, it will likely limit the offenses. Bad winds will further those issues.
Why this benefits the Steelers
While it is still uncertain how bad the weather will be, it seems like a certainty that it will be less than ideal conditions. Frankly, the worse the weather is, the more it helps the Steelers. Despite improvements since Mason Rudolph took over, the passing game is still lackluster.
What hasn’t been is the running game. The offense got this unit back on track, and both Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren have been churning out yards in chunks, and the Bills defense has been susceptible to good rushing attacks.
Buffalo also has some strong rushers in James Cook and quarterback Josh Allen. Their offense is more focused on big passing plays though, and if the weather is bad, that will hurt the Bills more than it will hurt the Steelers.
Pittsburgh also thrives in close, ugly games. If the weather becomes a big issue, the score will likely remain low and close. The Steelers showed this season that they thrive in pulling those games out. While I wouldn’t say the Steelers should be favorites in this game, bad weather certainly gives them a bit more of an advantage.