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[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Aaron Rodgers will try to practice Thursday

The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to wait and see with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The four-time MVP suffered a slight fracture in his left wrist at the end of the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals, leading to Mason Rudolph playing the second half of the 34-12 win.

Rodgers spoke with the media on Wednesday, revealing that he hopes to be on the practice field on Thursday.

“I was in a lot of pain,” Rodgers said via Mike DeFabo. “We were late in the play clock, called a timeout, and came over. I felt like I could go one more play and then when it and got it checked out… I’ll try to get on the field tomorrow and see what I can do.”

Aaron Rodgers on his wrist injury and the recovery process: pic.twitter.com/61HqpQR6g4

— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) November 19, 2025

Rodgers highlighted the rivalry between the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears that he was part of for so long, as well, putting it in the same breath as Yankees-Red Sox and Lakers-Celtics. With a cheeky smile, Rodgers noted that when he arrived in Green Bay, the Bears were leading the all-time series, and that wasn’t the case when he left.

The Steelers will need to stack as many wins as possible in the back end of their schedule to remain ahead of the Baltimore Ravens for the AFC North lead.

Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!

• Darnell Washington ends the mystery on his weight
• Steelers get positive update on Aaron Rodgers injury
• Aaron Rodgers ‘50-50’ for Week 12 vs. Bears
• Steelers Odds: Pittsburgh opens as road underdogs to Bears
• Schefter: Aaron Rodgers believed to have ‘slight break’ in wrist

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...-try-to-practice-thursday-pittsburgh-steelers

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Aaron Rodgers returns to Steelers practice Thursday

Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was limited in practice on Thursday as he and Pittsburgh prepare for the Chicago Bears in Week 12.

Rodgers suffered a left wrist injury in the Steelers’ Sunday win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin later called it a break that wouldn’t require surgery. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported it as a “slight break.”

Game statuses haven’t been released yet for Sunday. On Tuesday, Tomlin said Rodgers’ availability would become clearer later in the week, noting “Friday is probably a big day.”

The Steelers’ only player to not participate in Thursday’s practice was defensive tackle Cam Heyward on a veteran rest day. Names such as Darius Slay, Jaylen Warren, Cole Holcomb, Alex Highsmith, and Ke’Shawn Williams, who missed the Cincinnati game or were injured during it, were limited of full participants.

Offensive lineman Isaac Seumalo, who has battled a pectoral injury in recent weeks, was also limited.

On the Bears’ side of things, their inside linebacker situation is becoming one to watch with Chicago’s top three at the position all missing practice on Thursday. The team is also close to getting top cornerbacks Kyler Gordon and Jaylon Johnson back from injury, although it remains to be seen if either will be ready to play in Week 12.

You can view the Steelers and Bears’ full Thursday practice reports below, per Steelers.com:

Pittsburgh Steelers Participation/Injury Report, Week 12

Thursday, November 20

No. 8 QB Aaron Rodgers (Left Wrist) – Limited
No. 23 CB Darius Slay (Concussion) – Full
No. 30 RB Jaylen Warren (Ankle) – Limited
No. 55 LB Cole Holcomb (Illness) – Full
No. 56 LB Alex Highsmith (Pectoral) – Limited
No. 73 G Isaac Seumalo (Pectoral) – Limited
No. 81 TE Jonnu Smith (NIR – Rest) – Full
No. 85 WR Ke’Shawn Williams (Concussion) – Full
No. 90 LB T.J. Watt (NIR – Rest) – Full
No. 97 DT Cameron Heyward (NIR – Rest) – DNP

Thursday, November 20

No. 9 DB Jaquan Brisker (Shoulder) – Full
No. 31 DB Kevin Byard III (NIR – Rest) – Full
No. 49 LB Tremaine Edmunds (Groin) – DNP
No. 53 LB T.J. Edwards (Hand/Hamstring) – DNP
No. 50 DL Grady Jarrett (NIR – Rest) – Full
No. 44 LB Noah Sewell (Elbow) – DNP
No. 52 OL Drew Dalman (Knee) – Limited
* No. 6 DB Kyler Gordon (Calf) – Limited
No. 21 RB Travis Homer (Hamstring/Knee) – DNP
* No. 1 DB Jaylon Johnson (Groin) – Full
No. 29 DB Tyrique Stevenson (Hip/Calf) – Limited
No. 4 RB D’Andre Swift (Hip) – Full
No. 58 OL Darnell Wright (Pectoral/Hip) – Limited
No. 23 RB Roschon Johnson (Thumb) – DNP
No. 62 OL Joe Thuney (NIR – Rest) – DNP
No. 79 OL Theo Benedet (Quad) – Limited

* in the 21-day window designated to return from Injured Reserve

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...lay-wrist-report-alex-highsmith-jaylen-warren

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Steelers vs. Bears: 5 questions with the enemy ahead of Week 12

The Pittsburgh Steelers (6-4) and the Chicago Bears (7-3) clash this week in the Windy City. Ahead of the big matchup between division leaders, I chatted with Bill Zimmerman, the deputy manager of SB Nation’s Bears website Windy City Gridiron, the figure out what the Steelers can expect from the Bears in Week 12.

You can read my questions and his answers below:

1. Caleb Williams is in Year 2. Has he looked like the player the Bears drafted him to be?​

Has he looked like the player the Bears drafted him to be? No. Have we seen improvement this year that he seems to be trending in that direction? Absolutely. I think after his rookie season, a lot of people wanted to pile on him because he’s such a polarizing figure. Look, Williams didn’t have a fantastic rookie season, but he did throw for 3,600 yards and 20 touchdowns with just 6 interceptions. The advanced numbers weren’t great, and his sack numbers were alarmingly high, but when you have two head coaches, three offensive coordinators, and a raging dumpster fire all around you, things won’t look too good.

This year, Caleb has greatly improved his sack numbers; he’s cut them more than half, and his sack avoidance numbers are near the top of the league. He is playing more in rhythm and in structure as well. His accuracy has nose-dived, and that wasn’t an issue in college, so it’ll be interesting to see if Ben Johnson can figure out how to clear that up. He’s seeing the field well and has been making the right read more often than not. It feels like if Caleb can get more comfortable and realign his accuracy, he might be on the cusp of taking off. 2026 could be a breakout season if that’s the case.

2. The Bears are 7-3 and in first place in the NFC North right now. How has first-year head coach Ben Johnson transformed the team?​

The most significant aspect to consider here is culture. Sometimes I feel like it’s a cop out answer, but it’s definitely true with this team. The Bears have been a losing organization for a long time. Just because a player comes from a winning program in college doesn’t mean they know what it takes to win at an NFL level. Same with front office and coaches. You may have been part of a winning organization, but when you are promoted and the culture that needs to be set falls on your shoulders, do you know how to do it? Whoever the Bears have asked over the last 15 years, they’ve all failed miserably. The Bears have been an organization that included fights among players, incompetent coaches, poor decision-makers, and ownership that certainly makes you question if they’ll ever put the right people in place.

When the Bears hired Ben Johnson, the knock on him was that he wasn’t a leader of men. He was a nerd who just wanted to sit in front of a whiteboard and dial up plays. But that hasn’t been the case at all. Johnson is intense to the point of being a borderline psycho, and I mean that in a good way. He has crazy attention to detail, and he came from a winning organization (crazy to say that about the Detroit Lions), and he learned how to build culture from a great culture builder in Dan Campbell. I think the Bears players have expected to lose when the game is on the line at the end of the game, but this team believes they are going to win, and they are making the plays they need to make when it matters most.

3. Chicago’s defense hasn’t been as high-flying as the offense. What are some of the strengths and weaknesses of Dennis Allen’s unit?​

This entire defense was going to rely on an excellent back seven. But Jaylon Johnson has missed most of the season, Kyler Gordon has missed about half the season, and even Tyrique Stevenson has missed a couple of games. Suddenly, the secondary hasn’t been very good, and even LB TJ Edwards has missed multiple games. Suddenly, the Bears’ front four needed to step up with all the injuries, and they didn’t have the talent to do it. Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon are getting closer to a return, but I don’t expect them back against Pittsburgh.

The team’s weakness is the pass rush on the front four. They just don’t win individual matchups and get to the quarterback. Montez Sweat is their best pass rusher, but he’s good, not great. Austin Booker is a second-year player who has flashed some big plays, but hasn’t played enough to know if he can become a consistent player. Grady Jarrett hasn’t had the results on the field that the team had hoped for, although last week was his best game of the season, so perhaps he’s turning the corner. But this front four has had some success stopping the run, but they just can’t generate a pass rush with four.

As for the strength, it’s Dennis Allen’s aggressive scheme. The defense does an excellent job of creating turnovers, and they do a great job of creating havoc in the blitz game (keep an eye on CJ Gardner-Johnson and Jaquan Brisker with that). They also play very well on third downs and do a good job of getting opposing offenses to fourth down. But you can certainly move the ball down the field on first and second down if the offense takes care of the football.

4. Who are two under-the-radar players, one each on offense and defense, who could make an impact on Sunday’s game?​

It’s tough to give you an under-the-radar player on offense because most of their offensive skill players are very much on-the-radar type players. But two players that didn’t have too much impact in the first half of the season, that are starting to get more action on the offense and could make pretty big impacts, are rookies Colston Loveland and Luther Burden. Both of them have seen an increase in snap counts and are starting to be featured in the offense more and more. Don’t be surprised if Loveland burns the Steelers on a seam route or Burden has some success on intermediate routes as well.

On defense, I’ll say CJ Gardner-Johnson, who I mentioned in the last question. When Kyler Gordon was placed on IR, they signed CJ to play nickel and try to replace what Gordon does. He has done a great job with that. In 3 games, he has 3 sacks and 4 QB hits, and has also forced a fumble. He has been the playmaker the team has desperately needed on defense.

5. What’s your final score prediction, and why?​

I’m having a hard time being objective in this one. As a Bears fan, I loathe Aaron Rodgers. I don’t want to see Mason Rudolph on the football field. I want Rodgers out there, and I want the Bears to make him look like he did against the Chargers. I can’t type that in what is almost certainly Aaron Rodgers’ last game against the Bears (if he plays), I cannot even come to make myself type that the Bears could lose.

So maybe I’m just confident in the Bears’ ability to win games, or maybe I just won’t allow myself to see a negative outcome. I say the Bears do win this one. I think the offense is going to be able to score on the Steelers’ defense, and if the Bears’ defense can force a couple of turnovers, I think Chicago comes up with the win. I’ll say 27 to 20.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...nnis-allen-defense-offense-week-12-prediction

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Bears will be without top 3 LBs vs. Steelers

The Bears’ final injury report of the week was released on Friday, and it paints a worrying picture for the middle of the Chicago defense.

The Bears’ top three inside linebackers, Tremaine Edmunds, T.J. Edwards, and Noah Sewell, were all ruled out for Sunday’s tilt against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

That leaves fifth-year Amen Ogbongbemiga (one total tackle this season), fourth-year D’Marco Jackson (11 total tackles), and rookie fourth-rounder Ruben Hyppolite II (four total tackles) as the remaining linebackers on the depth chart. Neither of the three linebackers have started a game this season.

Chicago could also elevate practice squad linebackers Carl Jones Jr. or Jalen Reeves-Maybin for Sunday’s game.

Entering Week 12, the Bears have the NFL’s 10th-worst defense in passing yards per game and eighth-worst in rushing.

Edmunds had been enjoying a productive year with 89 total tackles so far, also tying a career-high with four interceptions.

However, the Bears have some possible good news in the report, with top cornerbacks Kyler Gordon and Jaylon Johnson, who are currently on injured reserve, listed as questionable after participating in full on Friday. Getting either back would be a boost for the Bears secondary.

You can view the full Bears’ Friday game status report below:

Game Status

No. 9 DB Jaquan Brisker (Shoulder) – Questionable
No. 49 LB Tremaine Edmunds (Groin) – Out
No. 53 LB T.J. Edwards (Hand/Hamstring) – Out
No. 44 LB Noah Sewell (Elbow) – Out
* No. 6 DB Kyler Gordon (Calf) – Questionable
No. 21 RB Travis Homer (Hamstring/Knee) – Out
* No. 1 DB Jaylon Johnson (Groin) – Questionable
No. 23 RB Roschon Johnson (Thumb) – Out
No. 79 OL Theo Benedet (Quad) – Questionable

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...edwards-kyler-gordon-game-status-week-12-news

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Steelers-Bears injury report: Alex Highsmith doubtful, Cam Heyward questionable

The Steelers and Bears meet on Sunday, and each team has a lengthy list of injuries and game statuses following Friday’s practice.

Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, as expected, is questionable entering the weekend. He suffered a slight wrist break against the Bengals in Week 11 and was a limited participant in Thursday and Friday’s practices.

Outside linebacker Alex Highsmith, who missed last week’s game with a pectoral injury, is doubtful. Veteran defensive tackle Cam Heyward is a surprise addition to the list, now questionable with an ankle injury after being seen in a walking boot on Friday.

Cornerback Darius Slay, who suffered a concussion against the Bengals, is questionable heading into Week 12.

On the Bears’ side of things, all three of the team’s top inside linebackers are out for the game. Top defensive backs Kyler Gordon and Jaylon Johnson, who are currently on injured reserve, practiced in full by the end of this week and are questionable ahead of Sunday. Starting safety Jaquan Brisker is also questionable.

Bears starting left tackle Theo Benedet is also questionable with a quad injury; depth running backs Roschon Johnson and Travis Homer are both out.

You can view full Friday injury reports and game statuses below, via Steelers.com:

Pittsburgh Steelers Participation/Injury Report, Week 12

Game Status

No. 8 QB Aaron Rodgers (Left Wrist) – Questionable
No. 23 CB Darius Slay (Concussion) – Questionable
No. 56 LB Alex Highsmith (Pectoral) – Doubtful
No. 97 DT Cameron Heyward (NIR – Rest/Ankle) – Questionable

Friday, November 21

No. 4 WR DK Metcalf (NIR – Rest) – DNP
No. 8 QB Aaron Rodgers (Left Wrist) – Limited
No. 23 CB Darius Slay (Concussion/NIR – Rest) – Limited
No. 30 RB Jaylen Warren (Ankle) – Full
No. 55 LB Cole Holcomb (Illness) – Full
No. 56 LB Alex Highsmith (Pectoral) – Limited
No. 73 G Isaac Seumalo (Pectoral/NIR – Rest) – DNP
No. 81 TE Jonnu Smith (NIR – Rest) – Full
No. 85 WR Ke’Shawn Williams (Concussion) – Full
No. 90 LB T.J. Watt (NIR – Rest) – Full
No. 97 DT Cameron Heyward (NIR – Rest/Ankle) – Limited

Chicago Bears Participation/Injury Report, Week 12

Game Status

No. 9 DB Jaquan Brisker (Shoulder) – Questionable
No. 49 LB Tremaine Edmunds (Groin) – Out
No. 53 LB T.J. Edwards (Hand/Hamstring) – Out
No. 44 LB Noah Sewell (Elbow) – Out
* No. 6 DB Kyler Gordon (Calf) – Questionable
No. 21 RB Travis Homer (Hamstring/Knee) – Out
* No. 1 DB Jaylon Johnson (Groin) – Questionable
No. 23 RB Roschon Johnson (Thumb) – Out
No. 79 OL Theo Benedet (Quad) – Questionable

Friday, November 21

No. 9 DB Jaquan Brisker (Shoulder) – Full
No. 31 DB Kevin Byard III (NIR – Rest) – Full
No. 49 LB Tremaine Edmunds (Groin) – DNP
No. 53 LB T.J. Edwards (Hand/Hamstring) – DNP
No. 50 DL Grady Jarrett (NIR – Rest) – Full
No. 44 LB Noah Sewell (Elbow) – DNP
No. 52 OL Drew Dalman (Knee) – Full
* No. 6 DB Kyler Gordon (Calf) – Full
No. 21 RB Travis Homer (Hamstring/Knee) – DNP
* No. 1 DB Jaylon Johnson (Groin) – Full
No. 29 DB Tyrique Stevenson (Hip/Calf) – Full
No. 4 RB D’Andre Swift (Hip) – Full
No. 58 OL Darnell Wright (Pectoral/Hip) – Full
No. 23 RB Roschon Johnson (Thumb) – DNP
No. 62 OL Joe Thuney (NIR – Rest) – Full
No. 79 OL Theo Benedet (Quad) – Limited

* in the 21-day window designated to return from Injured Reserve

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...aaron-rodgers-week-12-linebackers-roster-news

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Saturday Night Open Thread: A win Bears out

Live from Delaware, it’s Saturday Night! I, NAS204PSU, am here at BTSC to bring you this Saturday Night Open Thread (aka SNOT).

Tomorrow we face DAH Bears in Chicago. Not sure if Aaron willbeago to be airin it out. I’m looking forward to some vacation time this coming week, and hopefully for bears burger as a TG appetizer.

This 4 pack of questions is here to get the conversation going, so let us know what you’re eating/drinking!

1: Our Steelers got revenge against the Bengals in a game that wasn’t close late. Is this a solid win for the Steelers or does Joe Burrow not playing dimish the importance?

2: DAH Bears are hosting. Is this a must win since the Ravens are nipping at our heels?

3: Next week is Thanksgiving week. Do you prefer to host or visit?

4. In the theme of TG, who is the biggest “Turkey” no longer on the Steelers roster?

BONUS Song Of The Night: Alice’s Restaurant Massacree by Arlo Guthrie

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...93/saturday-night-open-thread-a-win-bears-out

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Steelers vs. Bears: How to watch, TV channel, and more for Week 12

The Pittsburgh Steelers head to Chicago on Sunday to face the NFC North-leading Bears. Through 10 games, first-year head coach Ben Johnson has transformed Caleb Williams and the Chicago offense to the tune of a 7-3 start. However, it will be one of Williams’ toughest tests yet, as he faces a Steelers defense trending upward.

Since acquiring safety Kyle Dugger, Pittsburgh has gone 2-1 and allowed 20 points or fewer twice. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin may have saved his job when he decided to pair Dugger and Jalen Ramsey at safety together, as they have been terrific in helping the team turn around.

The uptick in Pittsburgh’s defensive play coincided with the offense taking a step in the wrong direction. Aside from the 34-point tilt against Cincinnati’s horrid defense, quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the offense have missed key plays.

Speaking of Rodgers, there is still no definitive answer as to whether he will get the chance to continue his ownership over the Bears on Sunday afternoon. Oddly enough, whether it’s Rodgers or Mason Rudolph or both, Chicago having to game plan for each could play into Pittsburgh’s hands.

Luckily for offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s unit, Chicago is immensely injured on the defensive side of the ball. In Week 12, the Bears will be without linebackers Tremaine Edmunds, T.J. Edwards, and Noah Sewell, as well as cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon.

Yet to play a team while it has a winning record at the time of their matchup, how will Chicago handle their flurry of injuries with a hungry Steeler team in town? Here is how to ensure you catch all the action.

How to watch Steelers vs. Bears​

Date: Sunday, Nov. 23

Venue: Soldier Field

Game time: 1 p.m. EST

TV channel: CBS (KDKA PGH)

Live stream: YouTube TV (NFL+)

FanDuel odds: Bears -2.5, O/U 46.5

Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!

• Steelers’ Jalen Ramsey hit with fine for fight with Ja’Marr Chase
• Steelers, Bears update injury reports for Sunday
• Steelers vs. Bears: Week 12 staff picks
• Steelers mock draft roundup: Could Pittsburgh go WR in the first round?
• Steelers Weekly Mailbag: Are Steelers taking a QB in first round of 2026 NFL Draft?

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...12-aaron-rodgers-injury-status-news-streaming

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

3 Steelers injured in loss to Bears

The Steelers suffered three injuries worth mentioning in their loss to the Bears in Week 12, head coach Mike Tomlin said in his postgame press conference.

Wide receiver D.K. Metcalf suffered an ankle injury but returned to the game despite clearly aggravating it on multiple plays.

Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. injured his hip flexor and wasn’t able to return. In his place, Darius Slay, who was benched to start the game, took the field.

Starting left tackle Broderick Jones suffered what Tomlin described as “stingers” late in the game, leaving for the Pittsburgh locker room. “He’ll be examined for further information,” Tomlin said.

Tomlin also addressed a fourth injured player in the press conference — quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who missed the game with a left wrist injury.

“I anticipate him being ready for next week,” Tomlin said in response to a question.

As always, player availability reports throughout the following week will reveal more about the statuses of the Steelers’ injured starters.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...lf-aaron-rodgers-mike-tomlin-press-conference

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Buccaneers at Rams: Week 12 SNF open thread

Sunday Night Football this week is a battle between two of the top teams in the NFC: the 6-4 Buccaneers versus the 8-2 Rams. Also, a Baker Mayfield Immaculate Grid game. Kickoff is at 8:20 p.m. EST on NBC.

As always, who are you rooting for? What are you watching for? And who do have in fantasy football?

Let us know in the comments, and enjoy the game.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...54/buccaneers-at-rams-week-12-snf-open-thread

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

3 takeaways from the Steelers’ 31-28 loss to the Chicago Bears

The Steelers are now 1-13 all-time in Chicago following Sunday’s 31-28 loss to the Bears. As always, there are plenty of takeaways to be had.

1. The Steelers had the right gameplan — and then they didn’t​

Outside of an early Mason Rudolph interception, the Steelers offense was largely efficient in the first half. The run game was churning out chunk gains, and the passing game kept finding success in the screen game.

Down their top three linebackers, the Bears had a clear weakness on defense. Like last week against an inexperienced Cincinnati linebacker core, Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith tested the opponent’s sideline-to-sideline range with plenty of short passes in the flats. He also added more creativity than usual to his run game, with plenty of varying concepts and misdirection.

Smith’s best moment of the afternoon was a fake tush push on a fourth and short that turned into Pittsburgh’s biggest play of the game.

FIRST DOWN KG

#PITvsCHI on @paramountplus pic.twitter.com/Ss7BSsrNBt

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) November 23, 2025

The Steelers finished the day with 186 rushing yards. Kenneth Gainwell and Jaylen Warren looked great.

But in the second half, the Steelers offense stalled in a big way. In the third quarter, Pittsburgh punted twice and fumbled once on just 11 offensive plays. As the adage goes, the other guys are paid too, and Chicago figured out the perimeter runs and started to tighten up defensively.

But the Steelers didn’t have an answer offensively. The deep ball, even with Mason Rudolph at quarterback, remained nonexistent. And despite Chicago’s secondary and linebacker woes, Pittsburgh still failed to threaten the intermediate middle of the field.

ZERO middle of the field passing vs backup LBs!!!! pic.twitter.com/sO2mzNf2us

— Matt Williamson (@WilliamsonNFL) November 23, 2025

Play calling and execution faltered down the stretch. The Steelers had two shots at a game-winning, or tying, drive, and both failed. On the first, Mason Rudolph converted a big third down, but it was called back for an illegal formation penalty that the drive never recovered from.

On the second attempt to get into field goal range, Rudolph’s final two completions of the game were for two yards each, with the latter staying in-bounds — with no timeouts and under 40 seconds remaining.

As a result, the Steelers forced themselves into a hurried, must-have fourth and six situation that went about as well as you’d expect.

Woof. Smith open, Gainwell has been killing for you in space and Austin had just routed someone up a little bit ago for you. #Steelers https://t.co/PKxDB8r7tH

— Christopher Carter (@CarterCritiques) November 23, 2025

Pittsburgh only put up 21 points offensively on Sunday against a Bears defense that was in the bottom quarter of the league in most metrics. Sure, the Steelers had their backup quarterback starting, but that’s still a poor mark given the number of injuries Chicago was dealing with.

Sunday’s loss — once again — revealed the lack of talent on this Pittsburgh offense. And it wasn’t a great look for Arthur Smith and Mike Tomlin’s in-game adjustments, either.

2. The quarterback situation is a non-story​

The number of Mason Rudolph versus Aaron Rodgers takes I saw before, during, and after the Bears game was and continues to be ridiculous. I just don’t think it makes that much of a difference.

Let’s start with the game itself. Rudolph went 24/31 for 171 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. His average depth of target was hilariously low — while he definitely tried to make the deep ball a thing, it wasn’t there — and his final stat line looked an awful lot like Rodgers’ have this season.

Different QB: Same Results
Aaron Rodgers’ last three starts vs. Mason Rudolph’s outing against the Bears — the downfield drought looks eerily alike. We dropped a 10‑yard marker on the Next Gen Stats graphics so yinz can see it for yourselves. #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/QR3UuPk0Cs

— 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 (@steelcityundrgr) November 24, 2025

As expected, Rudolph looked less skittish in the pocket, but also less aware. He was sacked twice, and as evidenced in the fourth-down video above, he was missing the quick reads Rodgers usually nails.

Also, it appears Rodgers caught the aforementioned illegal formation before Rudolph or anyone on the field did:

Aaron Rodgers nailed this one! He saw the bad formation before the play… pic.twitter.com/uqZ60Zltk0

— Chad Reuter (@chad_reuter) November 23, 2025

Is that to say the 41-year-old should’ve started on Sunday? Not at all. Maybe Rodgers would’ve played better against the Bears, but his performances in recent weeks haven’t exactly been a head and shoulders above what we saw from Rudolph. And it doesn’t make sense for Mike Tomlin to have made Rodgers inactive for any reason but health.

I can assure you with near-certainty that Rodgers’ 24-5 career mark against the Bears — a team he hasn’t played since 2021, mind you — would not have magically healed a broken wrist on an already aging quarterback.

On the flip side, Rudolph’s performance, while acceptable for the backup quarterback he is, proved once again that he’s not a starting-caliber passer who’s been waiting to save the Pittsburgh offense.

It’s pretty simple: Rodgers hasn’t been playing well as of late, and given his injury it didn’t make sense for him to suit up against the Bears. Rudolph came in and played like Rodgers’ backup. I’m not sure if there’s a narrative there beyond the fact we knew already: Pittsburgh could really use a true franchise quarterback.

3. Odds and ends​

• I don’t have a lot of takeaways for this particular game as it went about as expected. Don’t get me wrong: The Steelers were beyond frustrating at times, especially in the second half, but it was an entertaining game against a Bears team that’s a lot better than some are giving it credit for. I’ve said my piece about the structural issues of this team plenty of times in earlier columns.
• One storyline that did matter in Steelers-Bears was how dependent each team was on turnovers. Chicago and Pittsburgh were the top two teams in the NFL, respectively, when it comes to generating turnovers, and both were in the top five in turnover differential. In Sunday’s game, the turnover battle ended in a tie, with each team earning two. But the Bears did more with theirs, turning both into touchdowns while the Steelers only managed one.
• T.J. Watt leapfrogging J.J. Watt on the all-time sack list while J.J. was on the call — and the play ending in a touchdown — was undeniably cool.

"If he's going to pass my record, that's one hell of a way to do it. Good for you TJ."@JJWatt on TJ Watt passing him in career sacks

PITvsCHI on CBS/Paramount+https://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/kvTf89M584

— NFL (@NFL) November 23, 2025

• Caleb Williams’ velocity on throws was a challenge for the Steeler defense on Sunday. Pittsburgh had players in zones, but Williams could just rocket the ball past them before they could react. I wouldn’t be surprised if those RPMs affected Kyle Dugger’s dropped interception, as well.
• Not that it was ever electric to begin with, but the Steeler passing game really fell apart in the second half. I’d be curious to see how much D.K. Metcalf’s injury affected things. He’s the team’s best receiver by a wide margin, and anything that hampers his availability is a big blow for the offense.
• I know Darnell Washington is a fantastic run blocker, but he hasn’t made the switch to offensive line yet. I don’t get the team leaving him one-on-one with Montez Sweat so much on Sunday.

HAVE YOURSELF A DAY MONTEZ SWEAT

pic.twitter.com/VWxLQMlkXe

— Barstool Chicago (@barstoolchicago) November 23, 2025

• Nick Herbig is a lot stouter against the run than a lot of people give him credit for.
• One positive of having Mason Rudolph was the ability to run a normal quarterback sneak without any Connor Heyward gadgetry. He had two rushing first downs against Chicago.
• The Jalen Ramsey hit on Caleb Williams right before he went out of bounds really shouldn’t be controversial. We’ve seen defenders get hung out to dry by quarterbacks faking going out of bounds before continuing forward countless times — if they’re in-bounds, you have to hit them.

Caleb picks up the 4th down conversion with his legs

PITvsCHI on CBS/Paramount+https://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/r5qjiYDk3i

— NFL (@NFL) November 23, 2025

• Kicker Cairo Santos was a real weapon for Chicago with his knuckleball-style kickoffs. I’m surprised more teams aren’t trying to implement that strategy.
• The wrinkle in the Steeler run game with Spencer Anderson motioning in and lead blocking in the A-gap was a nice addition to the offense.
• I’d put most of the Steelers’ coverage issues on scheme more than individual players on first watch. A lot has rightfully been made about the league’s most expensive defense giving up another 30-plus point game, but I’d argue coordinator Teryl Austin’s direction has been the bigger problem.
• Maybe it was because he was so recently in concussion protocol, but it was interesting to see Mike Tomlin essentially bench cornerback Darius Slay in favor of James Pierre on Sunday. The former only entered the game after Joey Porter Jr.’s injury. It’s good to see Pierre get more reps after clearly playing his way into a bigger role earlier this season.

Coach Mike Tomlin said James Pierre got the start over Darius Slay based on a quality week of work in practice, complimented his play as of late, and said 'we will see what holds for next week.'

— Teresa Varley (@Teresa_Varley) November 23, 2025

• It can almost go without saying at this point, but NFL referees continue to be brutally inconsistent with their calls. There were some head-scratchers for both sides on Sunday.

The Steelers’ next opponent won’t be any easier. Pittsburgh takes on the Bills at 4:25 p.m. EST at home on Nov. 30.

What are your takeaways from Steelers vs. Bears? Agree/disagree with the ones above? Join the Behind the Steel Curtain community and let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...eek-12-nfl-analysis-caleb-williams-dk-metcalf

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

James Harrison voices frustrations with Steelers after loss to Bears

After their fourth loss in six games, frustration is beginning to set in for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ faithful.

The black and gold dropped Sunday’s contest to Chicago, despite several chances to claim victory. The losing effort also means Pittsburgh loses control of the AFC North, as Baltimore now holds the tiebreaker, sitting at 6-5 as well.

While the Steelers still control their own destiny, the loss on Sunday was one of devastating proportions, leaving former Pittsburgh players no choice but to voice their thoughts.

Ex-Steelers James Harrison and Joe Haden took to their podcast, Deebo and Joe, to share their opinions on the club falling to 6-5. Harrison gave his reaction to a poor defensive effort, leaving no room for confusion with his irate response.

“Defense, [chuckles] soft,” said Harrison. “I’m tired of seeing the offensive lineman pushing our d-line two, three yards deep. We’re undisciplined, or poorly coached, or both. We have a horrible defensive scheme; it’s trash, it’s garbage. We can’t adjust at halftime; it’s nonexistent, or we’re just being out-coached, or both.”

An irate James Harrison sounds off on Steelers' offensive and defensive coaches for terrible plans and schemes. Take a minute and listen.

"We have a horrible defensive scheme. It’s trash, it’s garbage. We can't adjust." #Steelers

(via @deeboandjoe)https://t.co/KOpNxr5WeW pic.twitter.com/MPGLChXR7M

— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) November 24, 2025

Despite playing for Mike Tomlin throughout his career, Harrison was not shy to drop his criticism of the poor coaching thus far. Whether the Steelers legend was referring to Tomlin or defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, the message was clear: it is not good enough.

On Sunday, Pittsburgh’s defense allowed 30 points or more for the fifth time this season. While they appeared to be turning a new leaf with Kyle Dugger and Jalen Ramsey working well together, things crumbled down once again in the loss.

Part of their downfall could be attributed to playing the knowledgeable, offensive-minded head coach, Ben Johnson. Regardless, allowing 30 points this often can only take the team so far.

In Week 13, the Steelers will meet one of the best offenses in the NFL, the Buffalo Bills. Running back James Cook has had an elite season, ranking among the top in several RB statistics. Quarterback Josh Allen has had his fair share of turmoil; however, he remains last year’s MVP and a lethal weapon that can strike at any moment.

If the Steelers hope to keep their record above .500, the defense must devise a more effective scheme to confuse a potent offense. Bills-Steelers kicks off at 4:25 p.m. EST from Acrisure Stadium, Sunday, November 30.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...-after-loss-to-bears-buffalo-bills-josh-allen

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Steelers sign former Chiefs WR

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed former Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Cornell Powell to their practice squad, the team announced on Tuesday.

We have signed WR Cornell Powell and DE Anthony Goodlow to the practice squad and released DB Daequan Hardy and LB Mark Robinson from the practice squad. @BordasLawhttps://t.co/ntH2TbOJfp

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) November 25, 2025

Powell was drafted in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Clemson, where he had a terrific senior season. He caught 53 passes for 882 yards and seven touchdowns in 2020, which led to his fifth-round selection in the ensuing draft. Unfortunately, Powell has yet to take off. He’s appeared in just three regular season games, all of which were in 2022.

After being waived by the Chiefs in 2024, he was picked up by the Seattle Seahawks. After a brief stint in Seattle, he was briefly with the Houston Texans in August before being released. This past spring, he caught 29 passes and seven touchdowns for the DC Defenders of the UFL.

Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!

• Steelers legend Hines Ward named semifinalist for Pro Football Hall of Fame
• Varsity and JV: Winners and losers from Steelers loss to Bears
• Steelers odds: Steelers open as home underdogs in Week 13
• Broderick Jones injured vs. Bears
• DK Metcalf injured vs. Bears

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...steelers-sign-former-chiefs-wr-cornell-powell

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Steelers power rankings roundup: Pittsburgh slides again after choking division lead

It was another disappointment for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they fell 31-28 to the Chicago Bears on Sunday. The Steelers started strong and were able to force Bears quarterback Caleb Williams into uncomfortable situations early, as T.J. Watt strip-sacked the young signal caller early in the game, but things flipped dramatically in the second half. Williams went on to toss three touchdowns on the afternoon despite struggling with his accuracy. The defense had several passes that probably should have been intercepted, but they were not able to take advantage of them. Pittsburgh also got little help from its offense in the second half as Mason Rudolph was not able to push the ball down the field despite Chicago being down several defensive starters.

It’s time to take our weekly look at where the national media ranks the Steelers among the rest of the league.

ESPN No. 18 (No. 16 last week)​

“It’s understandable if thinking about Thanksgiving memories makes Steelers fans flinch. Not only did Tomlin incur the six-figure fine for interfering with Jones’ would-be kickoff return touchdown in 2013, but the Steelers also had a memorable lowlight 15 years earlier in Detroit. Bettis said he called tails at the overtime coin toss, but referee Luckett said he heard heads. The coin landed on tails. Arguing ensued, and audio replays suggest Bettis quickly said “head-tails.” Regardless, the Lions got the ball first and kicked a field goal to win the game.” – Brooke Pryor

CBS Sports No. 19 (No. 17 last week)​

“They seemed to have a big hold on the division a month ago, but now they are in second place. They face a tough one this week with the Bills.” – Pete Prisco

The Sporting News No. 18 (No. 12 last week)​

“The Steelers got a game Mason Rudolph and.a dynamic overall offense minus Aaron Rodgers against the Bears. But they didn’t finish well defensively after setting the tone early and that might be the story of their season.” – Vinnie Iyer

USA Today No. 18 (No. 18 last week)​

“Congratulations to T.J. Watt for becoming his family’s all-time sack leader. We’d still pick J.J. atop any Watt draft.” – Nate Davis

NFL.com No. 16 (No. 11 last week)​

“It’s hard to say whether the Steelers would have won Sunday’s game in Chicago with Aaron Rodgers under center. On the one hand, Mason Rudolph was picked on his first throw, lost a critical fumble in the second half and couldn’t tie or win the game with the ball in his hands. On the other hand, Rudolph wasn’t terrible, either, leading a few quality drives, and Rodgers’ play had dipped before he suffered the left wrist injury. It felt like Rodgers was close to playing against the Bears, which could mean the 41-year-old will face the Bills this Sunday in what could be a critical game for both teams’ playoffs chances. A loss in that one would be Pittsburgh’s fifth in seven games. All three units showed room for improvement at Chicago, so the Steelers will have to tighten up the entire operation quickly, no matter who is at QB.” – Eric Edholm

Things won’t get any easier for the Steelers over the next two weeks, as they have to face the Buffalo Bills and the Baltimore Ravens. The Baltimore Ravens are winners of five straight, and emerge from week 12 as the leaders in the AFC North due to their division record being better than the Steelers. The two teams have yet to play this season, which makes the impending week 14 matchup that much more important. With their backs against the wall, the Steelers will have to look better on both sides of the ball to have any chance of making the playoffs.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...urgh-slides-again-after-choking-division-lead

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Colin Cowherd calls out Mike Tomlin’s non-losing season streak

Colin Cowherd is one of the largest voices and faces of sports media in America.

When you are consistently in the crossfire of Cowherd, there is typically some smoke where there is fire. On Tuesday, Cowherd echoed what many locally in the media and fans have been thinking for quite some time.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are coming off a 31-28 loss to the Chicago Bears on Sunday, a franchise that hit the reset button with a new head coach and young quarterback. Chicago is 8-3 and trending upward, while the Steelers are 6-5 and on their way back down.

Mike Tomlin has never had a losing season in his 18 years coaching the Steelers. If he wins three more games, the streak moves to 22 years in a row for the franchise, the most in the league. Does it really matter??

“I think it’s an arbitrary number that everybody in sports sees as having value,” Cowherd said on The Herd Tuesday. “I see it as an arbitrary number that doesn’t really mean anything.”

The Steelers have not had a losing season in 21 years, the season that set them up to draft Ben Roethlisberger 11th overall in 2003.

Tomlin hasn’t won a playoff game since 2016. I was a sophomore in high school. The Steelers have lost four of their last six games. Aaron Rodgers has a wrist injury, and Patrick Queen is publicly calling out the defensive scheme.

“He hasn’t won a playoff game in eight years,” Cowherd said. “He would be fired if he were the Eagles coach or the Cowboys coach. The New England, San Francisco, Green Bay, or the Ravens coach.”

Outside of Baltimore, each of these franchises has moved on from a coach in the last 10 years.

“In Pittsburgh, it’s old school,” Cowherd said. “They take pride in stuff like ‘we have not had a losing season in 21 years.’”

Most of the fans don’t, but it’s clear the owner does. Cowherd pointed out that in the same stretch, 60 NFL teams with winning records missed the playoffs. During those 21 seasons, the Steelers were .500 four times and four additional times one game over .500. He identified the Chiefs, Eagles, Rams, Buccaneers, and Patriots that bottomed out, had losing seasons, and were able to reset.

The most glaring example is the Patriots, who are a completely different team with Drake Maye being comfortable and having pass protection in the pocket with Mike Vrabel in his first season.

New England had a terrible 2023 season, moved on from Bill Belichick, drafted Maye, and hired Vrabel after one failed season with Belichick disciple Jerod Mayo.

Known for his comparisons and analogies, Cowherd compared the Steelers to a bland and stale franchise in the NBA.

“You know who has the longest streak in the NBA of not having a losing season?” Cowherd said. “The Clippers. 14. In their own city, the Lakers make fun of the Clippers.”

Ouch. The Steelers’ history is significantly better than the Clippers, who have never won an NBA title, but the present and the last 10 years tell a story that is all too familiar.

“Pittsburgh is a small city. I get it, it’s old school. You go to a party in Pittsburgh, you talk about ‘where did you go to high school?’” Cowherd said. “That’s like not a conversation in New York, Chicago, Philly, Boston, San Francisco, LA.”

Oddly enough, this does happen, but maybe more as a matter of pride and connection than anything. It is especially difficult to compare the top 10 market sizes in the country. Regardless, Cowherd has a point. He said the quiet part out loud. Some people may agree. Is it better for the Steelers to bottom out, move on from Mike Tomlin, draft a franchise quarterback, and turn over a new leaf with a completely new team identity?

“I would rather have the Steelers bottom out this year, and if Dante Moore’s available, go grab him,” Cowherd said. “Go get a legitimate franchise quarterback for 15 years, 12 of it in his prime.”

The likelihood of this happening feels slim, but the national media is pointing the finger in one place.

The Steelers have been outscored 73-0 in the first quarter of their last six playoff games. Non-losing seasons are one thing, but going to the playoffs and not even thinking you have a chance is a completely different story.

“Belichick and Andy Reid were let go,” Cowherd said. “It’s nothing against Mike. But this arbitrary 21 years without a losing record? It means nothing.”

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...-non-losing-season-streak-pittsburgh-steelers

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Steelers-Bills injury report: DK Metcalf doesn’t practice Wednesday

The Steelers and Bills returned to practice on Wednesday ahead of their Sunday matchup in Pittsburgh, and each team is banged up early in Week 13.

For the Steelers, defensive lineman Derrick Harmon (knee) and offensive lineman Broderick Jones (neck) were both non-participants as expected. Head coach Mike Tomlin said both would be out this week in his Tuesday press conference.

Wide receiver D.K. Metcalf (ankle), quarterback Aaron Rodgers (left wrist), and wide receiver Ben Skowronek (shoulder) also did not participate.

Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (hip), outside linebacker Alex Highsmith (pectoral), and defensive tackle Cam Heyward (ankle) were limited. Highsmith and Rodgers missed Pittsburgh’s Week 12 loss to the Bears, but could return this week against Buffalo.

The Bills had an even more extensive injury report, highlighted by starting linebacker Terrel Bernard and two starting offensive linemen in Spencer Brown and Dion Dawkins not participating in practice due to injury.

You can view the full report below, from Steelers.com:

Steelers

WR DK Metcalf (Ankle) – DNP
QB Aaron Rodgers (Left Wrist) – DNP
WR Ben Skowronek (Shoulder) – DNP
CB Joey Porter Jr. (Hip) – Limited
LB Alex Highsmith (Pectoral) – Limited
G Isaac Seumalo (NIR – Rest) – Limited
OT Broderick Jones (Neck) – DNP
TE Jonnu Smith (NIR – Rest) – DNP
LB T.J. Watt (NIR – Rest) – DNP
DT Cameron Heyward (Ankle) – Limited
DT Derrick Harmon (Knee) – DNP

Bills

QB Josh Allen (Right Elbow) – Full
LB Terrel Bernard (Elbow) – DNP
DE Joey Bosa (Wrist) – Full
OL Spencer Brown (Shoulder) – DNP
OL Dion Dawkins (Concussion) – DNP
FB Reggie Gilliam (Knee) – Full
*OL Tylan Grable (Concussion) – Full
CB Maxwell Hairston (Concussion) – Limited
DT Daquan Jones (Illness) – DNP
TE Dalton Kincaid (Hamstring) – DNP
DT Phidarian Mathis (Shoulder) – Limited
WR Joshua Palmer (Ankle) – Limited
WR Curtis Samuel (Elbow/Knee) – DNP

* in the 21-day window designated to return from injured reserve

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...day-aaron-rodgers-terrel-bernard-dion-dawkins

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf return to practice

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

The Pittsburgh Steelers had several key players return to practice on Thursday, including Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf, both of whom did not practice on Wednesday. Cam Heyward was also a full participant after being limited on Wednesday. The full Thursday practice report is as follows:

Did Not Practice​

• WR Ben Skowronek (shoulder)
• LT Broderick Jones (neck)
• DT Derrick Harmon (knee)

Limited Participant​

• CB Joey Porter Jr (hip)

Full Participant​

• QB Aaron Rodgers (wrist)
• WR DK Metcalf (ankle)
• LB Alex Highsmith (pectoral)
• G Isaac Seumalo (rest)
• TE Jonnu Smith (rest)
• LB T.J. Watt (rest)
• DT Cam Heyward (ankle)

Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!

• Arthur Smith is not to blame for the Steelers’ offensive issues
• Steelers sign former Chiefs WR
• Steelers legend Hines Ward named semifinalist for Pro Football Hall of Fame
• Varsity and JV: Winners and losers from Steelers loss to Bears
• Steelers odds: Steelers open as home underdogs in Week 13

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...lf-return-to-practice-pittsburgh-steelers-nfl

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Steelers Read & React Week 13 preview — What to expect against the Bills

After a deflating loss to the Chicago Bears last week, the Steelers will be hosting Josh Allen and co. in Pittsburgh this Sunday.

The 7-4 Bills aren’t faring much better than the 6-5 Steelers this year, with the New England Patriots having taken over as the top team in the AFC East.

The narrative around Buffalo is that it’s still a dangerous team thanks to the talents of Josh Allen and a potent run game. But it’s a flawed team like the rest of the AFC’s lineup, and might just be an easier matchup than many Steeler fans realize.

Let’s take a look at what the Bills really are in 2025:

What to expect from the Bills’ offense​

Rushing YPG: 147.2 (1st)

Passing YPG: 234.6 (9th)

PPG: 28.3 (5th)

RP: The Bills remain dangerous as ever on offense. However, despite ranking near the top of the league in rushing, passing, and scoring, the sentiment around the Bills seems to be that the offense has been a disappointment this year. While talking to Matthew Byham of Buffalo Rumblings this week, he told me the numbers are disguising what has been a strained passing attack this season. He described the Buffalo offense as “laborious” when they are unable to run effectively. Still, it’s hard to feel too bad for the Bills when they remain among the most efficient offenses overall, by most metrics.

Team efficiency after MNF. Rams are elite pic.twitter.com/o0NYobM2dt

— Football Insights (@fball_insights) November 25, 2025

Of course, any conversation about the Bills’ offense begins with reigning MVP Josh Allen. On the year, Allen is completing 69.7% of his passes for 2,701 yards, 18 touchdowns, and nine interceptions.

We all know about Allen’s big arm and his improvisational skills as a passer, but he’s just as dangerous running the ball. He’s added 371 yards on the ground and 10 rushing touchdowns so far this year, marking the third straight season he’s accumulated double-digit scores, which puts him in some rarified air as a runner.

Insane list: Only four players in NFL history scored 6+ rushing touchdowns in each of their first eight seasons.

Jim Brown
Marshall Faulk
LaDainian Tomlinson
Josh Allen

Three Hall of Famers and the MVP.#BillsMafia pic.twitter.com/MhwYhCbMZ3

— Nick Veronica (@NickVeronica) November 2, 2025

Still, if there is one way to get to Allen, it’s to make him hold onto the ball. That’s something he’s prone to already, trailing just four other quarterbacks in average time holding onto the ball. When you eliminate screen plays from that data set, Allen trails only Caleb Williams and Jalen Hurts.

Average time holding the football overall and without screens. Wow Caleb Williams pic.twitter.com/n5553SLv2y

— Football Insights (@fball_insights) November 19, 2025

It’s a double-edged sword for Allen. On the positive side, holding onto the ball longer can lead to some of the magic we’re accustomed to seeing from him: scrambles and big play-hunting. He’s the reigning MVP because he is seemingly able to create explosive plays this way more often than not. But holding onto the ball can also lead to sacks and turnovers. Only five quarterbacks have been sacked more than Allen (28), and only six passers have thrown more interceptions.

A lot of the Bills’ passing game woes — and again they do put up a lot of yardage — are because they are lacking a dominant pass catcher, especially on the outside. Khalil Shakir leads the Bills in receptions (54) and yards (564), but operates best in the slot. The Bills’ second leading receiver, Keon Coleman (32 receptions, 330 yards), has been a healthy scratch in recent weeks. Of the rest of the Bills’ pass catchers, only two have more than 20 receptions: tight end Dalton Kincaid (29) and running back James Cook (24). Kincaid has missed two straight games with a hamstring injury, and it’s not looking promising for Sunday.

As such, stopping the run will be important if the Steelers hope to beat Buffalo. That’s no easy task, as the Bills have one of the best offensive lines in the league, and Cook has become one of the most explosive runners in the league. Cook’s 1,084 rushing yards are the second-most in the NFL, and his 26 runs of 10-plus yards trail only Jonathan Taylor and Devon Achane.

JAMES COOK UP THE MIDDLE ON THIRD AND SHORT

That also puts him over 1,000 rushing yards on the season

pic.twitter.com/u7YMXDKOIg

— Bills Lead (@BillsLead) November 21, 2025

The Steelers should focus on bottling up Cook. If the secondary can get back to the play they had before last week’s game, the Bills lack guys who can consistently win in man coverage. A heavy dose of that, as well as a spy on Josh Allen, should put them in the best position to keep the score manageable enough for the Pittsburgh offense to keep pace.

What to expect from the Bills’ defense​

Rushing YPG Allowed: 148.9 (30th)

Passing YPG Allowed: 168.2 (1st)

PPG Allowed: 22.9 (17th)

RB: Just from the first glance at the statistics above, you can immediately tell the biggest storyline with this Bills defense: best against the pass – bottom three against the run.

Of course, if you think Steeler fans have issues with their defense this year, spend a few minutes on Bills Twitter. The Bills Mafia has been disgusted with Buffalo’s play on that side of the ball this year, and coordinator Bobby Babich, as well as defensively-minded head coach Sean McDermott, have been the subject of plenty of “fire this guy” discussions over the last few months.

While the Buffalo offense hasn’t entirely lived up to expectations this season, as Ryan pointed out above, the defense remains by far the biggest issue. It’s worth pointing out that the Bills’ passing defense isn’t quite as dominant as the yards per game stats may show – teams pass against Buffalo the fourth-least in the NFL per Next Gen Stats, which certainly skews the numbers.

But first, what’s up with the awful run defense?

It’s largely a personnel issue. The defensive line’s best player, Ed Oliver, is on injured reserve. The Bills added D-linemen Larry Ogunjobi and Michael Hoecht this offseason, but both started off the year suspended and Hoecht was lost for the season with an injury shortly after returning.

That’s placed more responsibility on players such as rookie defensive lineman Deone Walker, who has already exceeded expectations in his first NFL season. But there’s no denying it’s still an undermanned unit.

Man. Don't see Creed Humphrey tossed like that often.

Bills rookie DT Deone Walker has been such a pleasant surprise. He and Jordan Phillips really stepped up to the plate in Ed Oliver's absence. pic.twitter.com/9qBgFrZVxD

— Benjamin Solak (@BenjaminSolak) November 4, 2025

The Bills run defense has actually been more hit and miss than consistently terrible this season: Per Next Gen Stats, they’ve allowed the second-most 10-plus-yard runs this year with 48, but they’ve also stuffed 18.2% of opposing rush attempts, good for sixth-highest in the NFL.

That’s the sign of a defense that has some good gap shooters, but not necessarily the beef to properly smother an opposing passing attack.

The Bills’ front seven can get pushed around, with even the Texans’ struggling running game managing 4.6 yards per carry for rookie Woody Marks last week.

The linebacking corps are probably the bigger issue, where Buffalo has struggled with age and injury this season. Matt Milano and Terrel Bernard have been playing below 100%, and the results being beyond obvious on tape.

This is tough to watch pic.twitter.com/3QhAacpi7h

— Cover 1 (@Cover1) November 11, 2025

As a result, teams have spammed runs outside the tackles against Buffalo at the second-highest rate in the NFL. And to make matters worse, the Bills have been one of the worst tackling teams in the league, allowing an NFL-worst 4.3 yards after contact per run. It can be brutal to watch sometimes.

It has improved some as the season has gone on, but the Bills run defense is still a major weakness.

To a lesser extent, the pass rush has also been disappointing. The Bills sit at 15th in the NFL in pressure rate, but they have the third-slowest average time to pressure (2.85 seconds).

Defensive end Greg Rousseau hasn’t lived up to his $20 million per year contract with just three sacks this season, but he has made a bigger impact on tape.

Greg Rousseau vs Texans pic.twitter.com/RmoK7s6TEp

— Cover 1 (@Cover1) November 24, 2025

Joey Bosa, Buffalo’s other starting end, has also been better than many realize even if he’s past his prime.

Joey Bosa had a productive day for the Bills

46.7% pressure rate
40% win rate
26.7 pass rush productivity
7 pressures
2 forced fumbles
1 sack

He operated regularly with power and precision in his movements, good hand usage, and quality rush angles

pic.twitter.com/AIkcpwSJm0

— Anthony Cover 1 (@Pro__Ant) September 14, 2025

However, the Bills just don’t have great depth on the front seven, especially with injuries, leading to what has been a disappointing season overall for the group. They also don’t blitz a ton – just 25th in the NFL – sending the odd interior pressure but not leaning heavily into sim pressures or unorthodox fronts.

On the flip side, the Buffalo secondary has been better than the average NFL fan probably realizes, led by first-team all-underrated names Christian Benford and Taron Johnson in the cornerback room. Tre’Davious White, another past-his-prime veteran, has looked solid in his return to Buffalo, as has first-round rookie Maxwell Hairston, who’s added some much-needed speed to the defense.

Yards per coverage snap allowed in man and zone among CBs since the start of last year pic.twitter.com/pofzNR9sEo

— Football Insights (@fball_insights) November 26, 2025

The Bills generally do a good job of mixing up their coverage concepts, especially shining in man.

Defensive coverage usage through Week 12

Via @FantasyPtsData pic.twitter.com/6br1JKVs8H

— Football Insights (@fball_insights) November 25, 2025

Christian Benford followed Drake London all Monday night and didn't allow a single catch when in press man coverage

The Falcons do a great job of moving London in and out of the slot. But IMO the Bills gave an elite WR like him way too many free releases pic.twitter.com/gQyXDdT297

— Carl Jones (@Jones11_) October 15, 2025

However, Johnson hasn’t looked like his past self this season, and the Bills have struggled at times in their zone coverage schemes that can look an awful lot like Pittsburgh’s spot-drop tendencies.

But to the Buffalo secondary’s credit, they attack the ball well after the catch. The Bills are one of two teams in the NFL with negative yards after catch over expected allowed (yeah, that’s a mouthful), allowing just 936 yards after the catch this season – good enough for best in the NFL.

Safety Cole Bishop has improved from one of the weak links on the Buffalo defense to a bright spot as the season has gone on.

Cole Bishop this season among qualifying safeties in pass defense per @PFF

21% Forced Incompletion – 3rd
4 Pass Breakups – 4th
3 INTs – 2nd
7.1% Missed Tackle – 16th
118 Receiving Yards Allowed – 10th

Stud. pic.twitter.com/f5jzcULjn0

— Ben | BillsAccess (@bills_access) November 17, 2025

Like Bishop, the Buffalo defense as a whole has taken some steps forward after an abysmal start to the season, but its middling rank in points per game allowed is accurate – this is a beatable unit.

As always, the injury report will be an important one to watch this week. As of Thursday, Bernard still hasn’t participated in practice this week.

How should the Steelers gameplan? You’ve probably guessed it already. Establishing a strong run game with Jaylen Warren should be paramount. And getting the jumbo package rolling to bully the Buffalo front seven could lead to success if the Pittsburgh passing game can do enough to keep the Bills honest.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...len-james-cook-read-react-afc-playoff-picture

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Steelers-Bills injury report: PIT gets healthier, BUF down top OTs

Aaron Rodgers, D.K. Metcalf, Joey Porter Jr., Alex Highsmith, and Cam Heyward don’t have game statuses and all logged full practices for the Steelers Friday as the team prepares to take on the Buffalo Bills Sunday.

Talking to the media on Friday, head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that names such as Metcalf and Highsmith would be good to go, adding that Rodgers has been able to take snaps from under center.

#Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said that Aaron Rodgers was a full participant today and will play against the Bills.

Also expects DK Metcalf to play. Andrus Peat will start at left tackle. https://t.co/Ty9aEwzX2f pic.twitter.com/yQMipRxyRR

— Alan Saunders (@ASaunders_PGH) November 28, 2025

As expected, starting left tackle Broderick Jones and defensive tackle Derrick Harmon were both ruled out for Sunday, and still haven’t practiced this week. Tomlin said veteran lineman Andrus Peat will start on Sunday in Jones’ replacement.

In Buffalo’s Friday report, head coach Sean McDermott ruled out starting left tackle Dion Dawkins, starting right tackle Spencer Brown, starting linebacker Terrel Bernard, and backup wide receiver Curtis Samuel for Week 13.

You can view both teams’ full Friday injury report below via Steelers.com:

Steelers

Game status

OT Broderick Jones (Neck) – Out
DT Derrick Harmon (Knee) – Out

Practice

WR DK Metcalf (Ankle) – Full
QB Aaron Rodgers (Left Wrist) – Full
WR Ben Skowronek (Shoulder) – Full
CB Joey Porter Jr. (Hip) – Full
LB Alex Highsmith (Pectoral) – Full
G Isaac Seumalo (NIR – Rest) – DNP
OT Broderick Jones (Neck) – DNP
TE Jonnu Smith (NIR – Rest) – Full
LB T.J. Watt (NIR – Rest) – Full
DT Cameron Heyward (Ankle) – Full
DT Derrick Harmon (Knee) – DNP

Bills

Game status

OL Dion Dawkins (Concussion) – Out
OL Spencer Brown (Shoulder) – Out
LB Terrel Bernard (Elbow) – Out
WR Curtis Samuel (Elbow/Knee) – Out

Practice

QB Josh Allen (Right Elbow) – Full
LB Terrel Bernard (Elbow) – DNP
DE Joey Bosa (Wrist) – Full
OL Spencer Brown (Shoulder) – DNP
OL Dion Dawkins (Concussion) – DNP
FB Reggie Gilliam (Knee) – Full
* OL Tylan Grable (Concussion) – Full
CB Maxwell Hairston (Concussion) – Full
DT Daquan Jones (Illness) – Full
TE Dalton Kincaid (Hamstring) – Limited
DT Phidarian Mathis (Shoulder) – Full
WR Joshua Palmer (Ankle) – Limited
WR Curtis Samuel (Elbow/Knee) – DNP

* in the 21-day window designated to return from Injured Reserve

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...etcalf-roster-news-mike-tomlin-sean-mcdermott

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Andrus Peat expected to start at LT Sunday for Steelers

The Steelers will have a new left tackle starting on Sunday with usual starter Broderick Jones expected to be out with injury against the Bills in Week 13.

Talking to the media on Friday, Tomlin said the team will work with “AP” (Andrus Peat) at left tackle this week. It appears he’ll get the nod over the Steelers’ other offensive tackle backup, Calvin Anderson.

#Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said that Aaron Rodgers was a full participant today and will play against the Bills.

Also expects DK Metcalf to play. Andrus Peat will start at left tackle. https://t.co/Ty9aEwzX2f pic.twitter.com/yQMipRxyRR

— Alan Saunders (@ASaunders_PGH) November 28, 2025

Peat was a three-time Pro Bowler from 2018-21 with the New Orleans Saints, who drafted him in the first round of the draft in 2015.

Peat, 32, has spent most of his time in the NFL as a guard, but he was top tackle prospect coming out of college and has a handful of starts on the outside in the pros, most recently in 2023 with the Saints.

The 6’7, 316-pound lineman signed with Pittsburgh on a one-year deal this offseason. He has played eight offensive snaps so far this season.

Peat has 104 career starts.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...-report-roster-news-mike-tomlin-bills-offense

 

[Pittsburgh Steelers]

Saturday Night Open Thread: Bills to pay

Live from Delaware, it’s Saturday Night! I, NAS204PSU, am here at BTSC to bring you this Saturday Night Open Thread (aka SNOT).

Tomorrow we host the Buffalo Bills. Many have said for years Aaron Rodgers needed to get a grip, and that will be even harder with a broken wrist. Josh Allen will test our Steelers defense. It’s not mathematically a must win, but sure feels like it should be.

This 5 pack of questions is here to get the conversation going, so let us know what you’re eating/drinking!

1: Mason and company hung tough tough vs DAH bears but ultimately came up short. So did the Eagles yesterday, who lost more decisively. Does it matter to you if “top teams” lose to the same opponent as Steelers?

2: The Bills starting tackles are OUT. I’m setting the line at 4.5 sacks for the Steelers defense tomorrow. You taking the over or under?

3: Black Friday was yesterday, did you or your loved one score any deals?

4. My family plays board/party games at holidays. Hot Seat was a big hit this year. Do you have any fun traditions during holiday get together?

5. What’s your best recipe to use up lots of leftover Turkey?

BONUS Song Of The Night: Don’t Stop Believing by Journey

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...62866/saturday-night-open-thread-bills-to-pay