*** 2024 Pittsburgh Steelers: one and done again. (6 Viewers)

[belljr]

Good Ugly AFC old fashioned North win

Just need to not play down to the Browns Thursday. Another division game on a short week makes things a bit tense

 

[C & C]

Eerily quite in here after a pretty big win.

 

[Cookiemonster]

Eerily quite in here after a pretty big win.

All the game threads I watched were also pretty quiet. My guess is a lot of people were drained from partying for the Tyson fight and UFC fight the prior two nights.

 

[Yogibear]

The two toughest games left on their schedule are back-to-back when they play the Eagles in four weeks and then turn around to host the Chiefs on Christmas. I don't see how the Steelers can survive that gauntlet of division winners. At least they don't have the Bills on their schedule. The way it looks now, the Steelers are probably going to have to go to Buffalo for the playoffs in the divisional playoffs.

 

[ThaPenguin]

The two toughest games left on their schedule are back-to-back when they play the Eagles in four weeks and then turn around to host the Chiefs on Christmas. I don't see how the Steelers can survive that gauntlet of division winners. At least they don't have the Bills on their schedule. The way it looks now, the Steelers are probably going to have to go to Buffalo for the playoffs in the divisional playoffs.

NBD, but you missed a game between those two...

 

[crushedspirit]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

 

[C & C]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

I didn't get to see much of the game yesterday, but agree with this sentiment. It's a nice win, gives some hope. But my hope is for a playoff win. I have a really difficult time seeing a playoff run.

 

[Dizzy]

Eerily quite quiet in here after a pretty big win.

People still recovering from scrambling to find the "Fire Mike Tomlin" thread to have it on hand just in case the Ravens would have pulled it out.

 

[Steelers4Life]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

I really want to see them use Justin Fields in the red zone more. His threat with his legs would be far more effective than trying to pound it in or throw fades to Pickens. We likely don't get the 1st down that clinched the game yesterday without him.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

The D just held the top offense in the league to 16 points.

 

[crushedspirit]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

The D just held the top offense in the league to 16 points.

A division rival is a different game for a reason. Lamar is notoriously below average when facing this defense so it comes at no surprise. They basically have his number.

This D and special teams are carrying the team. Offense needs to step up or they won't go far. You don't have to agree, but I've seen this song and dance before.

They have time to correct things on offense, so I'm holding out hope for growth there.

 

[crushedspirit]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

I really want to see them use Justin Fields in the red zone more. His threat with his legs would be far more effective than trying to pound it in or throw fades to Pickens. We likely don't get the 1st down that clinched the game yesterday without him.

Fields in RPO inside the 10 is a great idea to be honest. They're way too predictable in the RZ right now.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

If Washington doesn't give up on the play, that is a TD instead of an INT I think.

 

[ThaPenguin]

If Washington doesn't give up on the play, that is a TD instead of an INT I think.

I am fine if Russ takes that shot with Pickens or Williams, but Washington is unproven thus far. Should have airmailed it and taken the 3, getting points there was way too important.

 

[fred_1_15301]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

I really want to see them use Justin Fields in the red zone more. His threat with his legs would be far more effective than trying to pound it in or throw fades to Pickens. We likely don't get the 1st down that clinched the game yesterday without him.

Fields in RPO inside the 10 is a great idea to be honest. They're way too predictable in the RZ right now.

Honestly I would like to see Fields in once they get into the red zone.

 

[crushedspirit]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

I really want to see them use Justin Fields in the red zone more. His threat with his legs would be far more effective than trying to pound it in or throw fades to Pickens. We likely don't get the 1st down that clinched the game yesterday without him.

Fields in RPO inside the 10 is a great idea to be honest. They're way too predictable in the RZ right now.

Honestly I would like to see Fields in once they get into the red zone.

They're taking a no risk approach in the RZ and teams have caught on.

Fields opens up options in close that teams will have to account for.

 

[Dizzy]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

The D just held the top offense in the league to 16 points.

Hey, don't let the facts muddy up a good old "Steelers fans whining while winning" session.

 

[crushedspirit]

Let's shut down all conversation about wanting improvements on offense, especially in the RZ.

The cheerleaders have spoken.

 

[fred_1_15301]

Here are some additional facts about this team:

1. They're actually middle of the pack in offensive stats believe it or not. Red zone inefficiency is a big problem but it can be improved with more creative thinking (i.e. utilize Fields!)
2. They're a top 5 defense with one of the best turnover differentials in the league.
3. They have a top 3 kicker and a decent special teams unit overall.
4. Their net point differential is 3rd best in the AFC.
5. They've had 4-5 impressive wins against decent to good teams.

Every AFC team has weaknesses (including Buffalo and KC). If the defense is healthy going into the playoffs, I see no reason why this team isn't capable of making a run.

 

[Grid71]

If Washington doesn't give up on the play, that is a TD instead of an INT I think.

I am fine if Russ takes that shot with Pickens or Williams, but Washington is unproven thus far. Should have airmailed it and taken the 3, getting points there was way too important.

that's funny. throwing to the biggest man on the field in limited space seems like a good idea to me. washington has caught most everything catchable thrown his way. i'd like to see russ build better chemistry with his massive TE. bonus, as a terrific blocker, you know he's in on run plays. better disguise than throwing calvin austin out there and show run.

williams not being on the field much is a concern. you definitely don't want a guy who might zag when he's supposed to zig in the red zone. can make russ look real dumb when a receiver runs the wrong route. agree he will make a nice RZ target when he's up to speed.

 

[Grid71]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

I really want to see them use Justin Fields in the red zone more. His threat with his legs would be far more effective than trying to pound it in or throw fades to Pickens. We likely don't get the 1st down that clinched the game yesterday without him.

Fields in RPO inside the 10 is a great idea to be honest. They're way too predictable in the RZ right now.

Honestly I would like to see Fields in once they get into the red zone.

They're taking a no risk approach in the RZ and teams have caught on.

Fields opens up options in close that teams will have to account for.

good point. fields in the mix threw baltimore D for a loop. Russ looked timid, not aggressive. leads to more sacks and field goals than TD

 

[irish eyes]

Here are some additional facts about this team:

1. They're actually middle of the pack in offensive stats believe it or not. Red zone inefficiency is a big problem but it can be improved with more creative thinking (i.e. utilize Fields!)
2. They're a top 5 defense with one of the best turnover differentials in the league.
3. They have a top 3 kicker and a decent special teams unit overall.
4. Their net point differential is 3rd best in the AFC.
5. They've had 4-5 impressive wins against decent to good teams.

Every AFC team has weaknesses (including Buffalo and KC). If the defense is healthy going into the playoffs, I see no reason why this team isn't capable of making a run.

And when is the last time we talked about a punter killing the Steelers. It has been nice to not cringe when they do have to punt. Has been a pleasant surprise.

 

[Godsbrother]

I am fine with Fields coming in for some red zone snaps as a change up but I prefer that Russ remain QB for most of them.

Russ didn’t have a great day yesterday but he’s been mostly good over this past 4 game stretch

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

100% some of those RZ FGs need to become TDs for a real SB run. But they are winning and looking much better than they have in years.

 

[JoeSteeler]

Eerily quite in here after a pretty big win.

Steeler fans are only loud when the team loses.

 

[JoeSteeler]

Tomlin said Benton’s injury is a “non-issue”.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

The NFL feels pretty wide open this season actually.

 

[sm8680]

Week 12 & Week 14 the Stiller's play the Brown's. Why not just play them back-to-back. lol
Week 17 should be the Ravens.

 

[Max55]

Many of us are happy yet quiet because they really haven't proven much. Beating a division rival at home when their HOF kicker turned into a pumpkin is nothing to boast about. This offense scares nobody, especially the Bills and Chiefs whom are most likely the teams to beat come playoff time. Have to learn how to score TDs, or else another one and done incoming. They are currently bottom 3 in the league at 44.4% red zone TD efficiency, which is pitiful. If I see that improve then there's hope for an actual playoff run.

I really want to see them use Justin Fields in the red zone more. His threat with his legs would be far more effective than trying to pound it in or throw fades to Pickens. We likely don't get the 1st down that clinched the game yesterday without him.

Fields in RPO inside the 10 is a great idea to be honest. They're way too predictable in the RZ right now.

Honestly I would like to see Fields in once they get into the red zone.

For an RPO or run heavy, including Fields as an option sure.

For any kind of conventional offense give me Russ. I trust his decision making more. And yes I know the throw to Washington in the end zone wasn’t the greatest idea but Wash could have made a play on it or an effort to break it up.

 

[sm8680]

Is Pat Freiermuth earning his newly signed paycheck? 31 receptions, 295 yards and he leads the team with 3 receiving TDs.
Darnell 14 receptions, 168 yards and 1 TD. Keep in mind there's something special about seeing Darnell Washington who looks like a tackle catches passes at times with ease.

Please can we potentially see the passing of the torch from Pat Freiermuth to Darnell Washington? Darnell's snap count has been increasing at 55% and Pat's is at 70%. According to Steeler's 2024 snap counts https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/pit/2024-snap-counts.htm. We already know that Darnell is a far better blocker. Darnell is slightly faster at 4.64 compared to Pat's 4.68.

 

[sm8680]

I'm still holding out hope that Justin Fields is the long-term answer. Russell Wilson played against two weak NY teams, an overachieving Commanders team, and the Ravens. Despite 60% rostered and 42% started in ESPN fantasy football, many aficionados expected him to light up the Ravens' secondary. However, Russell ended up with just 6.3 points, allowing Chris Boswell to steal his thunder

 

[bryhamm]

Here are some additional facts about this team:

1. They're actually middle of the pack in offensive stats believe it or not. Red zone inefficiency is a big problem but it can be improved with more creative thinking (i.e. utilize Fields!)
2. They're a top 5 defense with one of the best turnover differentials in the league.
3. They have a top 3 kicker and a decent special teams unit overall.
4. Their net point differential is 3rd best in the AFC.
5. They've had 4-5 impressive wins against decent to good teams.

Every AFC team has weaknesses (including Buffalo and KC). If the defense is healthy going into the playoffs, I see no reason why this team isn't capable of making a run.

I would add #6 ... we still have these occasional games where we lose to someone we shouldn't lose to (IND and DAL).

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

Is Pat Freiermuth earning his newly signed paycheck? 31 receptions, 295 yards and he leads the team with 3 receiving TDs.
Darnell 14 receptions, 168 yards and 1 TD. Keep in mind there's something special about seeing Darnell Washington who looks like a tackle catches passes at times with ease.

Please can we potentially see the passing of the torch from Pat Freiermuth to Darnell Washington? Darnell's snap count has been increasing at 55% and Pat's is at 70%. According to Steeler's 2024 snap counts https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/pit/2024-snap-counts.htm. We already know that Darnell is a far better blocker. Darnell is slightly faster at 4.64 compared to Pat's 4.68.

The issue is the QB, not Pat

 

[Max55]

Here are some additional facts about this team:

1. They're actually middle of the pack in offensive stats believe it or not. Red zone inefficiency is a big problem but it can be improved with more creative thinking (i.e. utilize Fields!)
2. They're a top 5 defense with one of the best turnover differentials in the league.
3. They have a top 3 kicker and a decent special teams unit overall.
4. Their net point differential is 3rd best in the AFC.
5. They've had 4-5 impressive wins against decent to good teams.

Every AFC team has weaknesses (including Buffalo and KC). If the defense is healthy going into the playoffs, I see no reason why this team isn't capable of making a run.

I would add #6 ... we still have these occasional games where we lose to someone we shouldn't lose to (IND and DAL).

I believe I heard on 93.7 the fan that Steelers are #7 in offense (yards) since Russ has been the starting QB.

 

[Ghost Rider]

Some of y'all are crazy. The idea of them going back to Fields for anything more than a gadget play here and there is laughable. The passing game has been light years better since Wilson took over. Fields is not a good passer, and not a smart football player either (see: the one play he had Sunday saw him slide short of the 1st down when he had an easy path to put the game away by staying up for another yard).

 

[crushedspirit]

Obviously Wilson is better for the team overall so I don't see anyone advocating to take a step back. Suggestion is to just have some RPO packages with Fields inside the 10 because this team is struggling to score TDs.

The team ranks a dismal 30th in red zone scoring this season, converting just 44.4% of their opportunities into touchdowns.

More concerning is their recent form – over the past three weeks, their 25% conversion rate is second-worst in the league, surpassing only the struggling Cleveland Browns at 16.67%.

While Wilson has undoubtedly elevated the overall offense, Justin Fields has shown superior effectiveness in the red zone.

The numbers tell an interesting story: Fields’ 11 drives resulted in eight touchdowns and a field goal, while Wilson’s possessions have yielded four touchdowns and five field goals.

The numbers when in scoring position speak for themselves. One can choose to ignore them and keep plugging away with the same approach hoping for something to change or maybe try going back to something that produced better results in previous games.

 

[bryhamm]

Some of y'all are crazy. The idea of them going back to Fields for anything more than a gadget play here and there is laughable. The passing game has been light years better since Wilson took over. Fields is not a good passer, and not a smart football player either (see: the one play he had Sunday saw him slide short of the 1st down when he had an easy path to put the game away by staying up for another yard).

Who is suggesting they go back to Fields?

 

[Grid71]

Some of y'all are crazy. The idea of them going back to Fields for anything more than a gadget play here and there is laughable. The passing game has been light years better since Wilson took over. Fields is not a good passer, and not a smart football player either (see: the one play he had Sunday saw him slide short of the 1st down when he had an easy path to put the game away by staying up for another yard).

Who is suggesting they go back to Fields?

Every other team in the league.

 

[infantsam]

Reporting back from Heinz Field from last Sunday!


Game was great - very nervous crowd.

The D - can't say enough
The O - i'll take it

More Washington and Pickens, and let's see the the right side of the line gel - 2 rooks and a 2nd year right?

 

[ThaPenguin]

x.com

x.com

The #Steelers have never won a road, divisional Thursday Night Football game. They're 0-7 all-time and 0-5 under Mike Tomlin.

Tomlin is 2-8 on the road on TNF.

 

[Godsbrother]

x.com

x.com

The #Steelers have never won a road, divisional Thursday Night Football game. They're 0-7 all-time and 0-5 under Mike Tomlin.

Tomlin is 2-8 on the road on TNF.

All streaks come to an end eventually, my bet is that this one ends tonight

 

[Blick]

x.com

x.com

The #Steelers have never won a road, divisional Thursday Night Football game. They're 0-7 all-time and 0-5 under Mike Tomlin.

Tomlin is 2-8 on the road on TNF.

All streaks come to an end eventually, my bet is that this one ends tonight

This feels like a rough one. On a short week coming off a huge division game, I can see them being very flat.

 

[Grid71]

Steelers have been impressive this season. Special teams has been truly special. Defense has several disruptive playmakers. Offense is maturing with limited turnovers. Team is very good and on track to be playing their best football in December. Loving it!!!

TNF, Cleveland at home is playing in their "super bowl". They'll be fired up. I don't see the Steelers taking the Browns lightly at all. Expecting a physical, hard hitting game with the Steelers coming out on top. This team isn't going to let off the gas thinking they can get an easy win. Ain't happenin.

 

[JoeSteeler]

I expect a lot of Steeler fans tonight. A lot. I could see Browns fans selling their tickets with the bad record and the cold weather.

 

[ghostguy123]

Cold and rainy

 

[irish eyes]

Do I start Boswell over Tucker this week?

 

[ThaPenguin]

Do I start Boswell over Tucker this week?

Gotta think they haven't cleaned up their red zone offense in 3 days, roll with Boz.

 

[Godsbrother]

Weather could play a factor in tonight’s kicking game. Boz is used to kicking in the cold and rain but I wouldn’t be expecting multiple 50+ yard kicks

 

[cdclopper]

This is thw type of game the steelers lose.

 

[Bad_Mo2]

How is the weather in that armpit of a city? Worth playing the Browns DST vs. that Big Sloth harboring team?