Two weeks ago, people were wondering if the Pittsburgh Steelers would end the season undefeated. Now, people are asking if the Steelers are worthy of a playoff spot. The Steelers have had a rough few games to say the least, they've lost the last two matchups and haven't scored more than 20 points in three games. The Steelers main issue over the stretch has been with the rush game. They have rushed for under 70 yards in the last 3 week and now sit 31st in the league in team rushing yards per game. Big Ben Roethlisberger, who has thrown 5 interceptions in the last 4 games, hasn't gotten much help from his receivers either. The Pittsburgh receiving core now leads the league in drops at 37, 8 more than the next team. The Steelers defense is also a little shaken up after losing LB Robert Spillane last week too a knee injury, joining defensive standouts Devin Bush and Bud Dupree on injured reserve. On the other side of the field, the Bengals haven't won a game since losing to the Steelers 5 weeks ago. Cincinnati has averaged just over 10 points a game since the last matchup and now sit at 2-10-1 on the season. The Bengals are now onto 3rd string quarterback Ryan Finley after losing Joe Burrow and Brandon Allen to injury. Finley has not looked good this season, going 0-3 and throwing 2 interceptions in four games of work. If the Bengals cant get their 29th ranked rushing game going, it could be a long and painful night for the second year quarterback.
The Steelers need to get their season back on track Monday night. They need to use this game to build some confidence heading into the final games of the season and the playoffs. RB James Connor is questionable for Monday night, but the Steelers need to figure out the run game. Big Ben is too old and cant push the ball down the field enough to win playoff games by himself. Not only does the team need to have success running the football, the coaches need to actually call run plays. Too many times in recent weeks Pittsburgh has thrown the football in key short yard situations. Have some trust in your running backs and give them the football!
I wouldn't feel confident if I was a Steelers fan right now, I would be worried about Monday night. I do think the Steelers will win but it will be ugly. Steelers win 20-9.
