Why Is No One Talking About What the Steelers Are Doing? A Quiet Surge with George Pickens and a Resilient Defense
In the NFL, certain teams always seem to fly under the radar despite significant improvements or quiet successes. The Pittsburgh Steelers might be the perfect example of this in the 2024 season. While teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers, and Philadelphia Eagles dominate the headlines, the Steelers seem to be making strategic moves that could have them in the mix for a playoff run, if not more.
While the national media has been preoccupied with the stars of other teams, Pittsburgh’s quiet resurgence is being overlooked. With a budding star in George Pickens, a revitalized offense, and the usual steel-tough defense, the Steelers might be doing more than anyone expected this season. But why is no one talking about what they’re doing? It’s time to take a deeper look at the factors that could make the Steelers one of the most dangerous teams in the league.
A New Look Offense: George Pickens Takes the Spotlight
What stands out about Pickens is his ability to make spectacular plays, often showing off his acrobatic catches and ability to get open in critical situations. He has become a dangerous weapon for the Steelers offense, and as he continues to develop chemistry with Pickett, the sky’s the limit for his potential.
This season, Pickens has already put up eye-catching numbers, becoming one of the league’s top receivers in terms of yards per catch. His ability to stretch the field vertically has opened up the offense and provided Pickett with the kind of playmaking ability that the Steelers were sorely missing in previous years. But what makes the Steelers even more dangerous is the fact that they have a well-rounded offense with complementary weapons—something that wasn’t always the case in the past.
Kenny Pickett: The Growth of Pittsburgh’s Quarterback
Speaking of Kenny Pickett, let’s not forget about the growth he’s shown in his second season. While the conversation around elite quarterbacks often focuses on established stars like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Jalen Hurts, Pickett is steadily working his way into the conversation as a reliable, consistent signal caller for Pittsburgh.
Pickett’s maturation has been evident throughout the season. He’s shown more confidence in the pocket, making better decisions with the ball and understanding when to take risks. His chemistry with Pickens has been a key part of Pittsburgh’s offense this season, but he’s also found success with other receivers, proving that he can distribute the ball effectively across the field.
While Pickett may not yet be in the same tier as the top-tier quarterbacks, he has demonstrated that he can lead the Steelers offense efficiently. As the season progresses, if Pickett continues to improve and stay consistent, the Steelers could be positioned to make a serious push for a playoff spot, thanks to his ability to run the offense at a high level.
A Defense Built for the Playoffs: The Steel Curtain Returns
No discussion about the Pittsburgh Steelers is complete without mentioning their defense. The Steel Curtain, as it’s often referred to, has been a hallmark of Pittsburgh football for decades, and in 2024, the Steelers’ defense is once again playing at a high level. The defense has been the team’s backbone for many seasons, and it continues to be the unit that sets Pittsburgh apart from other teams in the league.
One of the standout players on this defense is linebacker T.J. Watt, who has continued to dominate on the field with his relentless pressure on quarterbacks. Watt is one of the most feared pass rushers in the league and has been the catalyst for much of the Steelers’ defensive success. Alongside Watt, Pittsburgh’s defensive line, secondary, and linebacker corps are all playing at a high level, making it one of the most well-rounded defensive units in the NFL.
The Steelers defense is particularly adept at creating turnovers and getting off the field in critical moments, which is essential for a team that is still working to find its identity on offense. In close games, a defense like Pittsburgh’s can make all the difference. They’re not only capable of stopping opposing offenses but also of turning the tide with game-changing plays.
Pittsburgh’s Potential: Why No One Is Talking About Them
So why is no one talking about the Pittsburgh Steelers despite these positive signs? The answer likely lies in the overall unpredictability of the AFC this season. With teams like the Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, and Miami Dolphins stealing the spotlight, the Steelers’ steady but unspectacular progress has been overshadowed by the flashier, high-powered offenses of other teams.
Additionally, the Steelers’ offense, while improved, is still considered a work in progress. While Pickens and Pickett are showing promise, they don’t yet have the kind of star power that demands constant media attention. As a result, the Steelers are flying under the radar, even though they may very well be on the brink of turning a corner.
Another factor is Pittsburgh’s conservative approach to the game. Unlike other teams that have been putting up big numbers, the Steelers have relied on a more methodical, balanced approach—one that doesn’t necessarily generate headlines, but can be incredibly effective in the long run. They’ve been able to grind out wins, relying on their defense and their emerging offensive playmakers, but the team’s style of play isn’t always as exciting or attention-grabbing as some of the more explosive offenses in the NFL.
Looking Ahead: The Steelers as Contenders
Despite being underappreciated by the mainstream media, the Pittsburgh Steelers have all the pieces to be legitimate contenders in the AFC. The combination of a rising star in George Pickens, a steadily improving quarterback in Kenny Pickett, and a defense that can go toe-to-toe with any offense in the league makes the Steelers one of the most balanced and dangerous teams in the NFL.
If Pickett continues to develop and the offense finds its rhythm, the Steelers could easily push for a playoff spot. With a defense as good as theirs, they’re built for a postseason run, and they could surprise teams in the playoffs, especially if they catch fire in the latter half of the season.
As the season unfolds, more attention will likely be paid to Pittsburgh, but for now, they’re quietly assembling a team capable of competing with the best. Don’t be surprised if, come January, the Steelers are among the teams making noise in the playoffs. Even if the national media isn’t focused on them right now, they could quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.
