Jan. 17—There are many layers to strip and examine from the season that ended quickly but not surprisingly for the Steelers, though the most difficult aspect going forward will be determining if their findings are something upon which to build or something that needs to be restructured.
It would be easy to commend the Steelers for making the postseason in a year in which there was much upheaval in the roster, losing seven starters during the offseason and another three to injury during the season. It would be easy to applaud the fight and determination that saw them win three of their final four games to make the postseason, including each of the final two in which they faced but survived elimination. That, in itself, was an encouraging sign after the late-season collapses that defined each of the final three years.
But there they were, exiting the postseason in a manner that has afflicted them all season — no offensive production in the first half and a defense that allowed 510 yards to the Kansas City Chiefs in a 42-21 defeat. Losing to the Chiefs, who are trying to get to the Super Bowl for the third year in a row, was not a surprise. Nor was the manner in which they lost.
