2013 NFL Preview: Pittsburgh Steelers

Added on Aug 05, 2013 by Scott in

NFL

Since 2000, the Pittsburgh Steelers have been one of the most consistently successful franchises in the NFL. The list of accolades earned during this span includes two Lombardi Trophies, six division titles, eight playoff appearances, and only one losing season. In 2012, they found themselves in the unfamiliar position of sitting at home in January. Age and injury seemed to have caught up with them. Will 2013 be another year in decline, or can they regain their winning ways?

Pittsburgh Steelers – A dominant defense is in the midst of a transition. James Harrison and Keenan Lewis departed in free agency, and Brett Keisel, Larry Foote, Troy Polamalu, Ike Taylor, and Ryan Clark are all on the wrong side of 30. Meanwhile, the offense waved goodbye to speedy Mike Wallace and gimpy Rashard Mendenhall. As long as Ben Roethlisberger stays healthy, they will continue to be a threat in the AFC. However, they are no longer a sure bet to be a legit contender.

Player in the spotlight: Jarvis Jones – The task of replacing five-time Pro Bowler Harrison falls on rookie Jones, who was one of the most disruptive players in college football in 2011 and 2012. He slipped in the draft due to a narrowing of his spinal cord, but his gaudy production against quality SEC competition cannot be overlooked. If he adjusts to the pro level quickly, the Steelers defense won’t miss a beat and will again be among the game’s best.

Trouble spot: Skilled players – Losing Wallace will affect Big Ben’s ability to challenge secondaries deep. Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders are capable receivers, but neither has proven to be touchdown makers. If rookie Le’Veon Bell can claim the top spot at running back, the offense should be okay. If not, a committee featuring Bell, Jonathan Dwyer and Isaac Redman will be called upon to get the job done. Keep an eye on Markus Wheaton, a dynamic talent who could fill Wallace’s role.

Fearless forecast – Counting out the Steelers is never a good idea. Mike Tomlin has a way of extracting wins from seemingly undermanned rosters. The schedule won’t do them any favors, but it could be a lot tougher (see Titans, Jets, Bills, Raiders). 10-6 sounds reasonable.