By: Jason Walsh II

Oct. 25th, 2022: It’s been no secret that we’ve seen a different Steelers team this season than we’re used to. After a dog fight week 1 win over last year’s Super Bowl contender and AFC North rival Cincinnati Bengals, it’s been a downhill fall for Pittsburgh. After Cincinnati, they lost 4 straight, Patriots, Browns, Jets, and Bills before earning their second win last week against Tampa Bay. However, even with the poor start to the season, it seems there has been no lack of talent on the Steeler’s roster, with a loaded receiver core, a red-hot rookie QB who came in against the Jets, and a strong defensive front.

NBC’s Sunday Night prime time game featured a matchup between Steelers Rookie QB Kenny Pickett and Dolphins 3rd year QB Tua Tagovailoa but would turn out to be a defensive matchup. As the game began, it seemed the Dolphins were going to dominate the game putting together 3 scoring drives for 13 points and shutting out Pittsburgh in the 1st quarter. Although, as always the Steelers would not go down without a fight, outscoring the dolphins 10-3 in the second quarter making the score 16-10 Miami at the half.

As the second half began, late evening rain started falling in Miami, creating a wet second half. Maybe because of the rain or because of strong defense but the second half of Sunday night’s game would be lackluster and scoreless.

Unfortunately for Steelers fans, this feels like a game they should have won. The offense was able to move the ball down the field but stalled out in the RedZone due to penalties and play-calling. The defense held a high-octane Miami offense to only one touchdown. However, dropped 4 potential interceptions throughout the night. The game would be sealed by rookie Kenny Pickett’s 2 forced passes that were picked by the Dolphins in the Redzone at the end of Sunday night’s game.

Overall, there are positives to take away from the game for the Steelers, and a good foundation to build on. However, it will be no easy task, Pittsburgh will face the undefeated 6-0 Philadelphia Eagles this coming Sunday, behind a quick pace offense led by Eagles QB Jalen Hurts.

After Philadelphia, the Steelers will head into their much-needed bye week. After the bye, the Steelers will still have a shot at a playoff push, with the bulk of their division games in the second half of the season. Right now, they are 1-1 in the AFC North with a win over the Bengals

and a loss to the Browns earlier this season. Pittsburgh realistically can only lose 2 more games, but the upside is they should be able to win out if they can play to their potential.