Last year, the Pittsburgh Steelers limped into the playoffs. They disintegrated in December, losing their last four regular-season games as their offense and defense both collapsed simultaneously. Over their final four games, they averaged just 14.3 points per game on offense while allowing 27.3 points per game on defense, losing the division in the process.
Not surprisingly, they got trounced in the playoffs, losing by two touchdowns to the Baltimore Ravens on the road in the Wild Card Round.
This year has been a different story for the Steelers. After struggling in late October and November, they’ve hit their stride in December, going 2-0 to start the month.
They’re clicking on both sides of the ball. Pittsburgh’s offense has scored at least 27 points in four of its last five games, while its defense is coming off one of its best performances of the season against the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football despite missing T.J. Watt.
Meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers looks rejuvenated after suffering a wrist injury in November. Over his last two games, he’s posted a season-high in passing yards and the second-best completion rate of his career.
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The Steelers have put themselves in a good position to close out the season, leading the AFC North by one game with three to play. If they keep playing well and clinch a playoff spot early, they’ll be able to rest their starters in Week 18 and essentially give themselves another bye week before the postseason.
If that happens, Pittsburgh will be in much better shape than last year and have a good chance to earn its first playoff win in nearly a decade.
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Featured image via Barry Reeger-Imagn Images