NPC’s “NFL Power Rankings Wrapup:” Pittsburgh Steelers, Week 8
Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Thanks to the foot of Shaun Suisham, the Steelers moved to 2-4 last weekend after they eked out a win over the Baltimore Ravens. Although the team is definitely “down” and in the cellar of the AFC North, they are not necessarily “out.”
How high did the Steelers rise in “Power Rankings” across the country after after their victory? Take a look below to find out, readers:
"When a 2-4 record is viewed as an encouraging sign, these aren’t your father’s Steelers.-Mike Florio (Pro Football Talk, Ranked #24)"
Although Mike Florio is the king of the “snarky jagoffs,” he is right about one thing: people are pretty excited over the 2-4 Steelers. Now I am happy to see that this team rebounded after their 0-4 start, but I’ve seen plenty of people who are treating the team’s last win over Baltimore with as much excitement as a postseason victory.
"In the win over the Ravens on Sunday, the Steelers snapped an 11-game streak of failing to reach 100 yards rushing. That just sounds strange for the Pittsburgh Steelers.-Brian Billick (FOX Sports.com, Ranked #20)"
Pittsburgh’s running game appears to be back, and it should do wonders for their offense. The threat of them running will help the offensive line since it will keep their opposition from pinning their ears back and attacking a one-dimensional unit with their pass rush.
"At 2-4, they are suddenly coming back to life with back-to-back victories. They looked like the old Steelers against the Ravens.-Pete Prisco (CBS Sports.com, Ranked #23)"
Watching the Steelers move the ball on the ground in an efficient manner was probably the best thing to witness last weekend. They certainly looked like the “old Steelers” during that game. One still must question how long they will continue to look like the “old Steelers” during their final 10 regular season contests though.
"Rookie Le’Veon Bell rushed for 93 yards in Week 7 against the Ravens. No Steelers rusher had more than 92 yards on the season entering the week.–ESPN.com (Power Rankings, Ranked #25)"
The Steelers will continue to win games and rise higher in the “Power Rankings” if they run the ball like they did last weekend. Bell looked like the type of back who deserved to be drafted in the second round with his performance against Baltimore. The offensive line looked surprisingly competent as well, particularly the guys along the interior.
"The Steelers aren’t done yet. Ben Roethlisberger went 17-for-23 with a touchdown pass against the Ravens, completing three of four pass attempts on Pittsburgh’s final drive to set up Shaun Suisham’s game-winning kick from 42 yards out. Big Ben has been making end-of-game streetball plays for a decade now.-Elliot Harrison (NFL.com, Ranked #28)"
Harrison is dead-on about one important thing, “Big Ben’s” presence always provides a huge boost to this team. Although they are essentially mired in the AFC North cellar, Roethlisberger under center means that the Steelers will always have a shot to win and climb back out at some point this winter.
Stats & Contract Info. Provided By: ESPN.com, Steelers.com , Spotrac, and Pro Football Reference
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