Even with a loss yesterday to the Philadelphia Eagles, the Pittsburgh Steelers punched their ticket to the 2024 NFL Playoffs. Pittsburgh was thoroughly outclassed in the 27-13 defeat as Quarterback Jalen Hurts finished with 290 passing yards and a spectacular 125.3 QB Rating.
The Pittsburgh Steelers defense also allowed the dynamic duo of A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith to have 100+ receiving yards apiece and 1 touchdown yesterday. Pittsburgh was not expected to make the NFL Playoffs this season, but they qualified for the fourth time in the last six seasons. Will the team be able to experience playoff success this year?
Pittsburgh Steelers Season Summary
The Pittsburgh Steelers have clinched their spot in the playoffs 🔥 pic.twitter.com/1ptVby5vxP
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) December 16, 2024
Yesterday’s loss dropped Pittsburgh’s record to 10-4 and shrank their NFC North lead to one game over the Baltimore Ravens. Pittsburgh’s season was going well, but Head Coach Mike Tomlin made the unpopular decision to name Russell Wilson the starting quarterback once he was healthy enough to return from injury. Justin Fields was 4-2 as the starting QB of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Wilson has gone 6-2. Pittsburgh’s offense has been mediocre this season as they are 18th in total yards and 11th in points per game.
As is seemingly always the case with the Steelers, they are led by their defense. They are ninth in yards allowed and sixth in points allowed. Defensive End T.J. made history in Sunday’s loss but left the game with an ankle injury that could limit his availability for next week’s contest. He is having another Defensive Player of the Year-caliber campaign. He is fourth in the league in sacks and leading the league in forced fumbles. A healthy Watt is essential for Pittsburgh’s success.
Final Thoughts
The Pittsburgh Steelers have an important game coming up as they visit the rival Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. This is a crucial game for the AFC North as a Baltimore Ravens win would tie the teams at 10-5 atop the division. A win would clinch the division for Pittsburgh, and keep them alive for either the AFC No. 1 or 2 seed.
