The 5: Steelers that may be difference-makers versus the Vikings
Every week, ahead of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ regular-season games, Steel City Underground will analyze the depth chart, injury reports, and key matchups against their upcoming opponent in order to point out “The 5” – Steelers players to watch.
In Week 13, the Pittsburgh Steelers were able to grab a close, fourth-quarter win over the Baltimore Ravens. After another comeback against their biggest rival, the Steelers will attempt to win back-to-back games, on a short week, on the road, against the Minnesota Vikings.
The Vikings are coming off of a close loss to the Detroit Lions, who finally got their first win of the season.
The past week has been up and down with many questioning the rest of the season and the near future of this team. Despite all of the changes in personnel the Steelers looked renewed last week. This week the Steelers will have to prove once again if they are for real.
The following Steelers players may turn out to be difference-makers in the upcoming December game.
Chris Wormley
After going on a tear against his former team, I look to see Wormley continue to have increased production upfront.
Even with the absence of Tyson Alualu and Stephon Tuitt, he has filled the spot very well considering the circumstances.
Kirk Cousins is not as mobile as Lamar Jackson, so I see Wormley adding to his sack total this game as well.
Ahkello Witherspoon
After finally seeing the field in a starting role, Ahkello Witherspoon gave fans a good performance at the corner position even with the lack of Joe Haden.
He showed great agility and ball skills which is something that the defense has had issues with in recent years. If he is going to be starting again, I see him continuing to make an impact in the secondary.
Montravius Adams
A new face that made a statement against the Ravens is Adams. Even though he did not fill up the stat sheet, he made key plays that helped get the defense off the field.
It is nice to see a nose tackle back on the field to help the defensive line.
Maybe we will get to see him continue his domination up front this week. It will be needed to contain Dalvin Cook.
Najee Harris
Najee is only getting better as the season progresses.
Expect him to be explosive against the Vikings this week as their run defense is not great and the Steelers have a top ten back in the league.
Look for Najee to get a lot of touches in this game.
Ben Roethlisberger
I think Ben can continue to perform at a high level: he just needs time and to be allowed to make more calls.
Look for him to have another great performance because, after that win, Ben may be on a revenge tour to prove the entire league wrong about him.
