The Pittsburgh Steelers have had a rough month, losing four straight games. It's officially time for Steelers fans to panic, and everything is looking a little bit less optimistic with the playoffs looming. The Steelers lost to the Cincinnati Bengals 19-17 on Saturday, and now, they’re limping into the playoffs on the heels of a four-game losing streak. With momentum slipping away, the team needs a dramatic turnaround if they want to avoid a quick exit.
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Steelers' Pat Freiermuth tries to call down George Pickens during a loss to the Bengals.
While the defense hasn’t been perfect, it hasn't been the main issue. They held Joe Burrow and the high-powered Bengals offense to just 19 points, which should be enough to win most games. However, Pittsburgh's offense was dreadful. Missed opportunities, poor execution, and a lack of consistency have been major problems, and with the pressure mounting, it’s clear that changes need to be made for a playoff push.
After the loss, Russell Wilson spoke to Steelers insider Gerry Dulac, where he revealed what Pittsburgh must do to fix the offense and save the season. Wilson, who knows the weight of a struggling offense, emphasized the importance of reestablishing balance and rhythm. If the Steelers want to salvage their playoff hopes, Wilson’s advice could be the spark they need to reignite the offense and get back on track.
"We’ve got to be effective on first down, give ourselves a chance on third down, and whatever that is, I think we’ve got to be able to do that," Wilson said. "That's a key part of the game is, obviously, being great on first and second down, getting ourselves a third down, and when we get our third downs, converting them."
The Steelers' offense was absolutely dreadful against the Bengals for most of the game. They averaged a dismal 3.3 yards per play and totaled just 193 yards of offense. The worst part was the fact that the Bengals are one of the worst defenses in the league, making it all the more frustrating to see Pittsburgh's offense struggle so much against their defense.
Benjamin B. Braun / Post-Gazette
Steelers' Mike Tomlin and Arthur Smith celebrate a win.
The offensive game plan was lackluster, and the blame falls squarely on Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith and Head Coach Mike Tomlin. Despite having extra days to prepare, they failed to make meaningful adjustments or move the ball effectively. Tomlin and Smith will need to get a brand new game plan if they want any chance in the playoffs.
Steelers' Arthur Smith Got Outcoached By Bengals' Lou Anarumo
The Steelers' run-heavy approach became far too predictable, often sticking to a repetitive pattern of run, run, pass on third down. This predictability made it easy for the Bengals to anticipate their next move. It was a hard watch for most football fans. When Steelers fans can easily predict what the offense is running, you can bet the opposing defensive coordinator has it figured out too.
Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo had a relatively easy night, as the Steelers' offense was too easy to read and counter. Despite the offensive struggles, there is a glimmer of hope for Pittsburgh. They still made the playoffs and are set to face the Baltimore Ravens in the first round. With everything on the line, a playoff win could erase the memory of these four straight losses and set up a huge upset.
Benjamin B. Braun / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin looks on before game against the Bengals.
On Sunday, it was revealed that the Steelers opened at +8.5 point underdogs. It's not going to be easy, but a big upset win would do a lot to ease the tension of the fan base. The pressure is on, but the question remains: Can Tomlin end the playoff drought and lead the Steelers to victory?
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