Game of Inches: Key Insights from Steelers’ Nail-Biter Against Commanders
The Pittsburgh Steelers matched up against the Washington Commanders on Sunday, where they were able to clinch the win by a singular point. The two teams were close throughout the entire game, and the Commanders ended the first half with three points over the Steelers. However, the Steel City was able to power through the rest of the game, winning with the help of Mike Williams’ decisive touchdown in the fourth quarter. The game has left many with a couple of impressions, the first being that the Pittsburgh Steelers truly are their own worst enemy. The second takeaway is that their inability to get out of their own way makes the Steelers’ performances even more impressive and speaks to their potential for the remainder of the season.
Many have speculated about the Pittsburgh Steelers’ inability to avoid senseless errors, as missed snaps, penalties, and failed plays have plagued the team throughout the season. The Steel City team continuously racks up penalties, an example being cornerback Joey Porter Jr. getting three penalties against him alone on Sunday. One of Porter’s penalties allowed the Washington team to score, which put them ahead at halftime. Penalties are not the only self-destructive tendency the Steelers have, as sloppy mistakes are prevalent as well. A failed fake punt in the first quarter allowed the Commanders to score a touchdown just three plays later. After Week 10, many are left wondering if the Steelers will be able to stay out of their own way for the remainder of the season, or if these mistakes will prevent them from success.
The other takeaway from the game contradicts the earlier notion that the Pittsburgh Steelers can’t stay out of their own way, and that is how many believe that the team’s potential is higher now than ever. While it does seem that the greatest opponent facing the Steel City team is themselves, they are able to consistently win regardless of this struggle and are at the top of their division. Their roster is stacked with veterans like Russell Wilson, who is expected to find his fit with the Steelers, and Mike Williams, who had a standout performance in his first game with the franchise. This roster is the primary factor contributing to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ newfound success this season and why so many believe that the franchise is Super Bowl-bound this year despite their consistent shortcomings. After watching the Week 10 match against the Commanders, many believe that this could be the season that returns Mike Tomlin to his former glory and early success with the team.
