Brooke Pryor, ESPN Staff Writer, reported that the Pittsburgh Steelers are facing challenges as they head into a wild-card game against the Baltimore Ravens. Coach Mike Tomlin’s mantra of “The Standard is the Standard” is a reminder of the team’s past success and the high expectations they aim to meet.
Despite past Super Bowl wins, the Steelers have struggled in recent postseasons, with a five-game losing streak dating back to 2016. This year, they finished 10-7 and are entering the playoffs on a four-game losing streak that cost them the AFC North title.
Tomlin remains optimistic and focused on the present, not dwelling on past failures. The team has a solid foundation with promising young players like Najee Harris, George Pickens, and Pat Freiermuth, complemented by a veteran defense.
However, the Steelers’ late-season slide has raised doubts about their ability to make a deep playoff run. A string of losses, including setbacks to the Ravens, Chiefs, and Bengals, has exposed weaknesses in the team’s performance.
Despite these challenges, Tomlin and the Steelers are determined to learn from their mistakes and improve. The team’s defense, once a strength, has shown signs of regression, while the offense has struggled to maintain consistency.
As they prepare for the wild-card game, the Steelers are focused on addressing their shortcomings and making the necessary adjustments to succeed in the playoffs. While the road ahead may be tough, the team remains dedicated to breaking their playoff drought and achieving success on the field.