As exciting as it is to be only two games behind the number one seed in the AFC playoff race, or defeating a fellow powerhouse Super Bowl contender in Week 15 against the Eagles, this simply may not be in the cards for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
This isn’t to say fans should lack belief in the team’s ability to pull off a deep playoff run or even capture the coveted seventh Lombardi Trophy. However, the short-term outlook for the Steelers leaves much to be desired.
For example, as many are aware, WR George Pickens’ hamstring injury could force him to miss the last few games of the regular season.
On top of that, arguably the best defender in the Steelers secondary, SS DeShon Elliott, will miss the Week 15 matchup as well. His talent will be sorely missed, as the Eagles offense boast several of leagues best offensive players: QB Jalen Hurts, RB Saquon Barkley, WR A.J. Brown, and WR DeVonta Smith.
Ultimately, fans should come to grips with a Week 15 loss being acceptable for the 10-3 Pittsburgh Steelers and save their excitement for the Week 16 matchup against the Ravens instead—a game that far greater playoff implications.