Steelers hard-hitting X-Factor deserves defensive game ball in Week 10 win

In Week 10, Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen emerged as the unsung hero of a tough battle against the Washington Commanders.

One of Pittsburgh’s most highly anticipated offseason acquisitions, Queen’s speed, resilience, and playmaking ability proved to be a perfect fit for Teryl Austin's defense, showcasing exactly why the team pursued him. His performance Sunday epitomized the hard-hitting tradition that Pittsburgh carries and demonstrated his immense value to the defensive unit.

Against a Washington offense ranked among the NFL’s best, Queen stood out as a leader on the field. The former first-round pick from LSU led the Steelers in tackles, racking up seven stops, including two tackles behind the line of scrimmage. His ability to read plays and react instantly allowed him to disrupt Washington’s rhythm, making life difficult for the Commanders in crucial moments.

Queen’s impact was felt from the opening whistle, as he flew around the field, closing gaps, and pressuring Washington’s backfield. His quickness and tackling ability were essential in containing the Commanders’ rushing attack and limiting their yards after contact.

Whenever Washington seemed to be finding a groove, Queen was there - using his athleticism to track ball carriers and stop plays before they could develop. In a game that demanded every ounce of defensive effort, Queen delivered, proving why Pittsburgh was so eager to add him to their roster.

Patrick Queen's contributions helped Steelers secure Week 10 victory

Queen’s versatility also allowed the Steelers to mix up their defensive schemes, keeping the Commanders on their toes throughout the game. His presence gave Austin the flexibility to call aggressive plays, knowing Queen could adapt to the situation, whether by dropping back in coverage or pursuing the quarterback.

The linebacker’s sideline-to-sideline speed allowed Pittsburgh to control the game’s tempo defensively, and his tackles for loss were momentum-shifting plays that bolstered the Steelers’ defense at pivotal moments.

With the game hanging in the balance, Queen’s relentless pursuit and ability to disrupt Washington’s offense helped seal a narrow victory, giving the Steelers their seventh win. His contributions may not appear in the highlight reels, but they were vital to the Steelers’ success.

Queen’s seamless integration into the defense and impact against one of the league’s top offenses proved that Pittsburgh’s investment in him was well-placed. As the Steelers continue their playoff push, Patrick Queen’s ability to make game-changing plays when it matters most will be vital to their defensive dominance.