You've Still Got tO win': Steelers Keeping Focus On B eating Bengals Even After Losing Control Of AFC North
You’ve Still Got tO win’: Steelers Keeping Focus On B eating Bengals Even After Losing Control Of AFC North
The Pittsburgh Steelers have always prided themselves on their resilience, toughness, and commitment to excellence. Despite a tumultuous season, one in which they’ve lost control of the AFC North division title, the Steelers are maintaining an unwavering focus on what’s next. Their next goal: Beating the Cincinnati Bengals.
Head coach Mike Tomlin and his players have made it clear that while the ultimate prize of a divisional title may be slipping away, the immediate task at hand is to focus on winning one game at a time and making sure they close out the season strong. After losing control of the AFC North, the Steelers are not only trying to ensure a playoff spot but also to prove that they can still be a contender when the postseason begins.
As the regular season moves toward its conclusion, the Steelers are facing a Bengals team that has already struggled this season but has the potential to play spoiler. Even though Pittsburgh’s hopes of winning the division are hanging by a thread, the team’s mindset remains focused on execution, improving week by week, and defeating their divisional rival.
The State of the Steelers Heading into Week 17
The Steelers have long been a model of consistency in the NFL, with a legacy of playoff appearances and successful seasons under head coach Mike Tomlin. However, 2024 has not gone entirely according to plan. Despite strong individual performances, the team has encountered roadblocks on both sides of the ball, and key games have gone against them, resulting in a loss of control over the AFC North crown.
Currently, the Steelers find themselves in the thick of the playoff hunt, albeit with the division slipping through their fingers. With teams like the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns gaining traction in the division standings, the Steelers know they need to take care of business, starting with their Week 17 matchup against the Bengals. The focus for Pittsburgh is clear—win, and keep winning, to ensure they stay competitive and in the postseason conversation.
While the Ravens and Browns may control their own destinies in the AFC North, the Steelers have not given up hope. Their playoff berth is still within reach, and securing a win against the Bengals is an essential step toward securing a wild card spot if they can’t reclaim the division.
Mike Tomlin’s Leadership and Focus on the Bengals
Mike Tomlin, known for his calm demeanor and sharp coaching acumen, is no stranger to adversity. Throughout his tenure with the Steelers, Tomlin has guided the team through both good and bad seasons, and his experience is invaluable at times like these. With the team out of control of their fate in the division, Tomlin has been adamant in stressing the importance of focusing on what the team can control—winning one game at a time.
In his weekly press conferences, Tomlin has consistently emphasized the need to remain focused and not let the distractions of missed opportunities weigh them down. “You’ve still got to win,” Tomlin said in a recent presser, his voice stern. “We’re not thinking about anything other than how we can execute and beat the Bengals. That’s the task at hand, and we’re not getting ahead of ourselves.”
Tomlin’s ability to keep his players focused on the task at hand has been a hallmark of his coaching style. He ensures that the Steelers remain level-headed, regardless of the circumstances surrounding them. The loss of control in the division, while disappointing, does not change their mentality of taking each game seriously and giving it their all. “You don’t get to dictate when or how success comes. It’s all about the process,” Tomlin added. “If you handle your business, everything else will take care of itself.”
The Steelers’ Defensive Strengths
While much of the focus is often placed on the Steelers’ offensive struggles, the defense has been the team’s backbone all season. The Steelers’ defense remains one of the most formidable in the league, and it will be essential in the Week 17 matchup against the Bengals. Led by defensive stalwarts like T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Cameron Heyward, the Steelers defense has continued to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks and force key turnovers.
Watt, in particular, has been a game-changer for Pittsburgh. Known for his relentless pursuit of the quarterback and his ability to change the course of a game with a single play, Watt will be crucial in containing the Bengals’ offense and ensuring that Pittsburgh has a chance to control the game. With Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow still one of the most potent passers in the league, the Steelers’ ability to apply pressure and disrupt Burrow’s rhythm will be key.
Minkah Fitzpatrick’s leadership in the secondary is also a critical factor. His ability to read the quarterback, make timely interceptions, and provide stability in the backfield gives the Steelers defense a significant edge in high-pressure situations. In a game that could have playoff implications, having a defense like Pittsburgh’s will be an important advantage.
The Steelers’ defense will have to continue its trend of playing physical, aggressive football. Whether it’s stopping the run game, generating sacks, or forcing turnovers, the defensive unit will need to rise to the occasion and keep the Bengals’ offense from finding its rhythm.
The Offense’s Role in the Steelers’ Playoff Push
While the defense has often been the strength of the team, the Steelers’ offense has been the weak link for much of the 2024 season. Quarterback Kenny Pickett, in his second year, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also had struggles with consistency. Pickett’s development will be one of the most critical storylines moving forward. His ability to take care of the football, make key throws under pressure, and lead the offense down the field will play a significant role in the Steelers’ success or failure in the final stretch of the season.
The Steelers’ offense will need to execute effectively to complement their strong defense. Pickett’s chemistry with top receivers like George Pickens, Diontae Johnson, and Pat Freiermuth will be crucial, especially in a matchup where scoring may be at a premium. Having a balanced attack that includes running back Najee Harris is also important. Harris, known for his tough running style and ability to move the chains, will be expected to contribute both as a rusher and in the passing game.
The offensive line, which has had its ups and downs throughout the season, will also be a point of concern. Protecting Pickett from the Bengals’ pass rush, which features talented players like Trey Hendrickson, will be crucial for the Steelers’ offensive success. If the line can provide solid protection and open lanes for Harris, it will take some of the pressure off Pickett and help establish a rhythm for the offense.
The Bengals’ Struggles and the Steelers’ Opportunity
While the Steelers are focused on winning and taking care of business, they know that they have a clear opportunity in front of them. The Bengals, who have been one of the most dynamic teams in the AFC in recent years, have underperformed in 2024. Injuries, inconsistent play, and a lack of rhythm on both sides of the ball have plagued Cincinnati this season.
Joe Burrow has dealt with injuries and has not been at his usual elite level, and the Bengals’ offensive line has also struggled to protect him. Without the same firepower on offense, the Bengals have struggled to put together complete games. Defensively, the Bengals have had some strong individual performances but have been inconsistent overall.
For the Steelers, this presents an opportunity. Pittsburgh has been known for taking advantage of teams that are struggling and capitalizing on mistakes. With the Bengals likely playing without their full potential, the Steelers must seize the moment. The key for Pittsburgh is to not underestimate Cincinnati, even if they are struggling. Rivalry games like this are always unpredictable, and the Bengals are always dangerous, even in the face of adversity.
