This post was originally published on this site
The Steelers are currently in the midst of an unusual stretch
When the NFL released its schedule seven months ago both players and fans circled this week on their calendars. Four teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, will play three games in 11 days.
Only once since 1933 has an NFL team played three games in 11 days in December – the 2011 Jacksonville Jaguars.
Unfortunately for the Steelers, so far, they have already dropped the first two. They fell 34-17 in a pivotal AFC North clash with the Baltimore Ravens last Saturday and stumbled to a 27-13 loss against the Philadelphia Eagles in week 15.
They now welcome in the two-time defending Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs.
When asked about the daunting stretch, Steelers DT Cameron Heyward, while displeased, is certainly not backing down from the challenge:
Cam Heyward notes “it’s what we signed up for” when asked about the #Steelers’ back to back short weeks.
When asked if the NFLPA could fight for more bye weeks for players:
“It would be better if we had a bye week before a Wednesday game. We just got done playing Saturday.” pic.twitter.com/VZOBwQcaET
— Christopher Carter (@CarterCritiques) December 23, 2024
This stretch not only came at a time when players were already banged up from a rigorous first 14 weeks. Both WR George Pickens and DB DeShon Elliott missed the previous two games but are likely to return against the Chiefs.
These games are also ultimately going to determine playoff seeding, as well.
As the adage goes, if you want to be the best, you’ve got to beat the best. The three Steelers opponents have combined to lose just nine of their total 41 games.
It’s important to note that the black and gold still control their destiny. They will win the AFC North with victories over the Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals in their final two games.
Easy enough, right?