Early in the season, the Pittsburgh Steelers showed flashes of brilliance, but often disappointed fans by failing to ultimately win games. Early in the season, the Pittsburgh Steelers didn’t really look like a Superbowl contender. Thankfully for the Steel City, many of those doubts are nothing but a blurb in the rear view mirror. As the regular season midpoint came and went, something changed. The unrecognizable Pittsburgh Steelers, who took refuge underneath a pile of penalty markers and struggled to run the ball,  reclaimed their identity. They transformed back into the resilient group that always has playoff potential. The Black and Gold will need to capitalize on the momentum gained in week nine if they plan to harbour hopes of concluding 2012 atop their division.

In terms of maintaining momentum, the Steelers might want to thank the schedule maker for their somewhat fortuitous week ten matchup. The Steelers will face off against the 1-7 Kansas City Chiefs. While no game can be overlooked, Kansas has recently been a little down on their luck, dropping their last five games. Going up against a surging Pittsburgh Steelers team that has not lost a Monday night game on home turf in two decades is a tall order for the Chiefs, but anything is possible. The Chiefs will have to stump the Steelers defense with wildcard players like Dexter McCluster if they hope to have any success. If the Steelers are able to stop themselves from looking ahead and focus completely on the task at hand, it could be a very long night for Kansas City.

The Steelers may have to keep their sights set on the Chiefs, but that doesn’t stop everyone else from taking a look ahead. Especially considering that the Steelers will take on a slew of divisional opponents to finish out regular season play. The Baltimore Ravens are currently leading the AFC North with a record of 6-2, but the 5-3 Steelers are never far behind. Depending on the outcome of week ten, the Steelers may have to opportunity to overtake the Ravens when the divisional rivals meet in week eleven.

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Written by Jannah

Growing up in Pittsburgh with three older brothers, my passion for Steel City sports should come as no surprise. When Steeler game day rolls around, I can undoubtedly be found in front of the nearest television, terrible towel in hand, cheering on the Black and Gold. This has been the Sunday afternoon scene at my house for as long as I can remember. A love for Pittsburgh and its sports teams has been such an integral part of me that it seems only natural to pursue a career in sports journalism. I am currently working on my bachelor’s degree in communications at Robert Morris University in hopes of making that happen. My Pittsburgh pride doesn’t stop with the Steelers. I am an avid Penguins fan who is also a regular at Primanti Brothers. On non-game days, I enjoy spending time cooking, baking, and shopping for shoes.

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