The Pittsburgh Steelers of recent years have been a more questionable team. While they often find ways to win games, it’s typically done in uninspiring fashion. Their lackluster offense has made it easy for critics to label them as pretenders, even during winning seasons. However, with the arrival of Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith and quarterback Russell Wilson, the narrative is shifting.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Mike Tomlin and Russell Wilson on the sideline during a game against the New York Jets in 2024.
The Steelers’ offense has improved under Smith’s guidance, with Wilson orchestrating high-powered drives that make the team a legitimate threat. For the first time in years, Pittsburgh is winning because of its offense—not despite it. Meanwhile, the defense remains dominant, wearing down opponents with a physical and relentless style.
Despite these improvements, not everyone is convinced the Steelers are true contenders. Former NFL MVP and current analyst Cam Newton recently expressed his skepticism during an appearance on First Take. His doubts stem from a belief that Pittsburgh’s success may be inflated by weaker competition and that the team has yet to prove itself against elite opponents.
"You said something earlier in the show that a lot of teams have not had meaningful wins," Newton said Friday. "I said that about the Commanders. I'm also going to say that about the Pittsburgh Steelers."
The Steelers have been thriving with Wilson at quarterback, winning all three games since he took over as the starter. Before Wilson's return, the team posted a solid 4-2 record under Justin Fields.
AP
Steelers' Russell Wilson talks to Justin Fields during a game.
While the defense has been performing at an elite level, Newton remains unconvinced, arguing that the Steelers have yet to secure a truly meaningful victory.
"They're undefeated," Newton said. "Let's cite those wins. New York Jets, the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, which is still up in the air is that really a good team. I'm just keeping it a buck, I just don't know yet."
Newton’s critique has sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some agreeing that Pittsburgh still has more to prove. Others argue that the combination of a revitalized offense and a strong defense makes the Steelers one of the most balanced teams in the league. As the season unfolds, the Steelers will have opportunities to silence their doubters and demonstrate they are more than just a team with potential—they’re contenders.
Newton’s claim that the Steelers don’t have any meaningful wins doesn’t hold up. For starters, this is the NFL—every win carries weight—and sitting at 7-2 firmly places Pittsburgh among the league’s top teams. Their most impressive victory might be the comeback road win against the Washington Commanders, a game many view as a meaningful test of resilience, despite Newton’s skepticism about Washington as well.
Steelers Are About To Be Tested Big Time
The Steelers also delivered a dominant statement in their win over the New York Jets. While the Jets have underperformed, their roster is undeniably talented, making Pittsburgh’s decisive victory noteworthy. Now, the Steelers face a pivotal challenge as they kick off AFC North play against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday. With one of the toughest remaining schedules in the league, the road ahead will reveal just how formidable this team truly is.
Jared Wickerham / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Russell Wilson drops back to pass during a Sunday Night Football Game against the New York Jets.
If Pittsburgh can secure a few wins during this brutal stretch, they’ll silence critics who claim they haven’t beaten tough opponents. Steeler Nation is eager to see how Wilson and the revitalized offense perform against some of the league’s best, with a chance to cement their status as true contenders.
#SteelerNation
