“You can’t win a football game by kicking all field goals.” Well that indeed was what the Pittsburgh Steelers did Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs. Although they knocked on the door multiple times, the Steelers were not able to find the end zone. Chris Boswell was relied on to put points on the board for Pittsburgh, and he did not disappoint. The win sets up a rematch of the 2004-2005 AFC Championship Game, one that no Steelers fan can forget. Also, Ben Roethlisberger finally gets another shot at Tom Brady in the playoffs, twelve years later.
Pittsburgh Steelers Divisional Round Takeaways
The Steelers dominated offensively, they just were not able to find the end zone. Le’Veon Bell had another excellent game, and Jesse James stepped up in the passing game. The defense played arguably its best game of the year, keeping the Chiefs’ stars out of rhythm. Chris Boswell set an NFL postseason record with six field goals. Most importantly, the Steelers moved to 9-0 in their last nine games and are one win away from Super Bowl LI. However, they will need to find the end zone in New England in order to beat the Patriots.
The Steelers out gained Kansas City 389-227 and possessed the ball for eight more minutes than the Chiefs. However, an inability to score touchdowns kept the game close and keep Kansas City within striking distance. Five of the Steelers six offensive drives ended inside the Kansas City 30 yard line. The problem was not moving the ball, the problem was moving it into the end zone.
Offense Moves Ball But Cannot Find End Zone
Le’Veon Bell had another stellar performance, averaging 5.7 yards per carry and picking up 170 yards total. Antonio Brown also went over 100 yards for the second week in a row. Even Jesse James stepped up and made an impact, picking up 83 yards on five receptions. The Steelers offense did not falter to the point of no return. The wheels were still turning, just not enough to make the big push into the end zone. This fairs well for Pittsburgh, as this offense is too talented to have this type of week two weeks in a row.
Steelers Defense Steps Up With Best Showing Of The Year
As it has been properly noted lately, the Steelers defense has drastically improved. Each week, it seems as if they have gotten better and have become more reliable. This week was no exception. The Steelers held the Chiefs to under 300 yards and only 16 points. Most notably, they held the Chiefs stars, Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill, to just 122 yards. However, this number is not indicative of these players impact on the game. The Steelers defense did not allow these two players to make a play that would swing the momentum in Kansas City’s favor.
The Steelers line-backing core yet again showed they are a force to be reckoned with. Bud Dupree and Ryan Shazier worked together to force a turnover in the second quarter. Dupree hit Alex Smith as he threw, and Shazier intercepted the wobbling pass for his fourth pick in four games. In the end though, it was the Steelers oldest linebacker that had the biggest game. James Harrison showed yet again that age is just a number. Harrison had six tackles, three for losses, two quarterback hits, and a sack, all team highs.
The Fourth Killer B
The biggest discussion after Sunday’s win is just exactly how many “Killer B’s” the Steelers have. In addition to Bell, Brown, and Ben, the Steelers reliable kicker Chris Boswell has officially entered the conversation. Boswell hit from 22, 38, 36, 45, 43, and 43 yards to give the Steelers all of their 18 points. This is Boswell’s second six field goal game of the year. However, this six field goal game occurred in the playoffs, a feat that has never been accomplished. Boswell’s record was enough to advance his team to the AFC Championship.
As the season comes down to four teams, it seems all have a chance to capture the title. The Steelers must distinguish themselves from the three other teams if they want to be Super Bowl Champions. The first step to doing so is by defeating the only team in the Ben Roethlisberger Era that has had their number. The AFC Championship game is just as much about redemption and glory as it is a chance to play in Super Bowl LI.
