Steelers are sitting pretty on 7-2.
As Week 10 comes to a close, the Pittsburgh Steelers bask in the deserving applause after their impressive come from behind 28-27 victory against the Washington Commanders.
It leaves many around the league asking one question. Do the Steelers have what it takes to go all the way?
Expectations prior to the season for the Steelers had them flirting somewhere between .500 and a wildcard slot. There was, however, quiet optimism among Steeler nation.
It must be said that so far this season has gone about as well as anyone could have expected, given the general malaise around the quarterback position.
A preseason injury to starter Russell Wilson caused more doubts, as well as the obvious lack of depth at the receiver position.
With last week easily being the most impressive win of the season, it has left the Steelers in first place in the AFC North with a record of 7-2.
The perennially excellent defence has absolutely feasted on takeaways this season with nine so far. That total is good for the second most in the league.
Meanwhile the offence has certainly become less one dimensional since Russell Wilson was inserted into the lineup at quarterback.
With Wilson behind centre for the previous three games, he has thrown six touchdowns to one interception. The mid-season addition of wide receiver Mike Williams has finally added some depth behind George Pickens.
Thanks to the excellent start to the season, Pittsburgh have given themselves an excellent chance of securing a playoff spot.
Nothing done and dusted
However, the daunting gauntlet they must run between now and the end of the season will give pause to anyone who considers a playoff berth all but secure.
The Steelers have the seventh-hardest strength of schedule left, with all six division games still to play.
The remaining two games are against the Eagles and a Christmas night showdown with the Chiefs.
Patrick Mahomes and co. could have a perfect season on the line, which would no doubt provide extra motivation.
Just over the midway point of the season though, the Steelers will be playing meaningful football from here on out.
With the offence trending upwards, the defence continuing to be a top-10 unit and the right dose of luck, fans can hope that another Lombardi Trophy may be within touching distance.
