Can the Pittsburgh Steelers make a playoff run?

In recent years, the Pittsburgh Steelers have struggled to force turnovers. But that’s changed in a big way. Can they now steal a playoff berth?

The start of the NFL’s 100th season did not go as planned for one of its most storied franchises. The Pittsburgh Steelers lost their first three games, their starting quarterback in Week 2 and the backup signal-caller went down hard three weeks later. Mike Tomlin’s club would dig itself a 1-4 hole.

But now the Black and Gold has strung together two straight wins over the Chargers at Los Angeles and on Monday night at home against the Miami Dolphins.

The Steelers fell behind 14-0 to the winless ‘Fins before rallying for a 27-14 victory. Second-year quarterback Mason Rudolph threw an interception on his first pass attempt, showing rust after not playing since Week 5. But he rebounded and looked like a different player as time wore on.

More from NFL Spin Zone

What really looks different these days is the Pittsburgh defense. In recent seasons, coming up with takeaways seemed to be a lost art for this club. This despite the fact that the Steelers have either led (2017) or tied for the league lead (2018) in sacks. A year ago, Tomlin’s squad forced a mere 15 turnovers.

But that was then and the now is 19 takeaways in seven games, second only to the New England Patriots this season (25 in 8 games). That’s four more opponent miscues grabbed by the Black and Gold this season than the team managed all of last year.

Newcomer Minkah Fitzpatrick leads the team with three interceptions and five passes defensed. Rookie linebacker Devin Bush, who has already racked up 59 tackles, has a pair of picks and four fumble recoveries. And outside linebacker T.J. Watt has rolled up six sacks, one interception, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.

This trio of players, all first-round selections by either the Steelers or Miami Dolphins, have accounted for 13 of the club’s 19 takeaways.

Now the question is whether the Pittsburgh Steelers’ opportunistic ways can propel this club in the right direction? After eight weeks of play, there are only six teams in the AFC that are above .500. Meanwhile, there are two big tests coming up in home tilts with the 5-2 Indianapolis Colts and 5-3 Los Angeles Rams.

Next. 2019 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 9. dark

The team’s offense is still a work in progress. But can some short fields and a touchdown return or two make up the difference?

Home/Pittsburgh Steelers