Pittsburgh can advance to the playoffs by winning their last game against the Ravens and taking advantage of Jacksonville’s loss. The Pittsburgh Steelers have earned a playoff berth and currently holds the 7th seed in the AFC. Their final ranking depends on the outcome of the Buffalo-Miami match. Steelers playoff storylines are important to fans following their playoff chances.
Playoff scenarios for the Steelers
-
Win against the Ravens: The Steelers’ most crucial step for Pittsburgh to make the playoffs was to win your last regular season game against the Baltimore Ravens, what they accomplished
-
Loss of the Jacksonville Jaguars: The defeat of the Jaguars already secured a playoff spot for the Steelers, improving Pittsburgh’s playoff chances
-
Defeat of the Buffalo Bills: A Bills loss in their game against the Dolphins could potentially improve the Steelers’ ranking and affect Pittsburgh’s playoff scenarios
-
Draw between the Houston Texans and the Indianapolis Colts: This scenario was another path to the playoffs in the Steelers playoff scenarios, but the Texans won their game
-
Draw against the Ravens + specific results: In the event of a tie, the Steelers needed the Colts-Texans not to be tied and the Jaguars to lose, which would have impacted how Pittsburgh could make the playoffs.
Current playoff standings
- The Steelers have earned the 7th seed in the AFC playoffs, thus strengthening their playoff chances
- Their final ranking could change depending on the result of the Bills-Dolphins gameaffecting Pittsburgh’s playoff scenarios
Key factors in Steelers’ late-season success
-
Quarterback performance: Mason Rudolph’s play was an integral part of the team’s play two-game winning streakincreasing Pittsburgh’s playoff chances
-
Offensive weapons: Receiver George Pickens and running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren have contributed significantly to how Pittsburgh can make the playoffs.
-
Improved secondary: The revamped secondary has played a crucial role in the team’s recent success and the Steelers’ playoff storylines.
Playoff drought context
-
The Steelers haven’t won a playoff game since 2016 under head coach Mike Tomlin, making their current playoff chances even greater
-
Recent playoff appearances have resulted in one and done results against the Jaguars, Browns and Chiefs, highlighting the importance of understanding how Pittsburgh can make the playoffs
-
Coach Tomlin views playoff drought as his personal burdennot that of the current team, as they focus on their playoff scenarios
The challenges of the next playoffs
-
Absence of TJ Watt: The Steelers will be deprived of their star outside linebacker for the playoffs, potentially affecting their playoff chances
-
Potential matchup against the Bills: Steelers could face a tough road game against Buffalo, a crucial factor in Pittsburgh’s playoff scenarios
FAQs
How did the Pittsburgh Steelers get a playoff spot?
The Steelers secured a playoff spot by winning their final game against the Ravens and taking advantage of Jacksonville’s loss. They are currently the 7th seed in the AFC.
What are the possible playoff scenarios for the Steelers?
The Steelers have already clinched a playoff spot. Their final standings depend on the outcome of the Buffalo-Miami game, which could potentially improve their position in the AFC playoffs.
What factors contributed to the Steelers’ late season success and improved playoff chances?
Key factors include the performance of quarterback Mason Rudolph, contributions from offensive weapons like George Pickens, Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, and an improved secondary.
How long has it been since the Steelers won a playoff game?
The Steelers haven’t won a playoff game since 2016 under head coach Mike Tomlin, making their playoff appearance even more significant.
What challenges will the Steelers face in the upcoming playoffs?
The Steelers will be without star outside linebacker TJ Watt for the playoffs, and they could face a tough road game against Buffalo, depending on their final standings.