The 5: Key Steelers who need a big game against the Chiefs
Well folks, I think this team has some fight in them, don’t you think? After another weekly heart attack while beating the Tennessee Titans at home, the Pittsburgh Steelers are suddenly thrust into the playoff race yet again.
Now, this week, they face the “Prince Charming” of the NFL in Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs. This will be a tough test for this Pittsburgh team that has to win-out to even consider earning their ticket to the big dance, according to the current Steelers odds.
Who will step up this week for the beloved black and gold? Let’s take a look at our five key players!
T.J. Watt
Watch out, Mahomes! Watt is charging and he wants that NFL single-season sack record! With the momentum in the Steelers defense’s favor, look for the best player in the league to be his usual disruptive self.
This can be a challenge because the Chiefs do have a decent pass protection and Mahomes is mobile. Either way, Watt is hungry and Mahomes will be his next meal. He only needs six sacks to break the record. History is definitely within reach for Mr. Watt.
Joe Haden
The hero of the day in Week 15 is another player that will once again have his number called this week to help shut down a very dangerous Chiefs wide receiver group. With the speculation of Tyreek Hill being inactive due to Covid-19, it would ease a lot of the stress on the Steelers secondary.
Haden has been a breath of fresh air in the Pittsburgh defense, and he is a pivotal leader and communicator. Look for him to get some more turnovers this week and do not forget, guys, he lifts weights!
Zach Gentry
If Pat Friermuth is out this week due to remaining in the concussion protocol after the hit he took against the Titans, look for Gentry to get a lot of attention. I think he is a secret weapon in the short yardage game. His size and strength can be a huge mismatch especially inside the red zone.
This will be a tough game for the Steelers offense and they need to take advantage of anyone that can make an impact. Maybe Gentry will get to see the end zone this week? We will see.
Alex Highsmith/Taco Charlton
I decided to include these two guys as one because that is how they will make an impact against “KC.”
Last week, against Tennessee, the mix of Highsmith and Charlton made an impact in the pass-rush effectiveness opposite Watt. The rotation of toughness and speed can help keep the Chiefs offense on their toes and possibly disrupt Mahomes’ ability to make a quick throw.
Both guys almost got to the quarterback multiple times in Week 15, and I would not be surprised if they get home this week.
Ben Roethlisberger
Big Ben will need to be “on his game” this week. All he has to do is play smart ball, not turn the ball over, and call his own plays. Hopefully, Mike Tomlin and Matt Canada get onboard with that.
When the Steelers run the hurry-up game they seem light years ahead of their conventional huddle scheme. Roethlisberger can get it done. The offensive line needs the mindset of, “just protect him and give him time and this game is winnable.”
The old gunslinger still has some ammo left!
