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The Pittsburgh Steelers came away with a big victory over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. This win kept them right in the thick of the playoff picture in the AFC.
It is a tight race, and every game will be vital moving forward as teams are separated by a razor-thin margin.
While the Steelers haven't been a consistent group, they are showcasing their potential. The defense is one of the most talented units in the league, led by superstar TJ Watt. The victory keeps them in the playoff race and brings their record to 7-6-1.
With that said, here are three takeaways from the Steelers' Week 15 win over the Titans.
Pittsburgh Steelers Week 15 Takeaways vs. Tennessee Titans
3. Ben Roethlisberger needs to be more effective
Ben Roethlisberger has shown his age in what is likely his final season. Throughout his career, Roethlisberger has been able to lead his team to deep playoff runs. That is not the case anymore, as he is relying on the talent around him to step up.
While it's great to have a good defense and talent around him, Roethlisberger needs to be better if the Steelers want to make it to the postseason. Against the Titans, he threw for only 148 yards and zero touchdown.
On the season, he has thrown for 3,214 yards along with 19 touchdowns and seven interceptions. These numbers aren't terrible, but they are certainly not great.
If Roethlisberger can pick up his game, the Steelers' offense will improve heavily.
2. The run game needs to improve down the stretch
Pittsburgh's weakness offensively over the past few seasons has been their run game. They addressed this in the offseason by drafting Najee Harris in the first round. Harris has been a phenomenal running back, but he struggled against the Titans.
Harris had 12 carries for 18 yards and zero touchdown. A weak run game moving forward would be detrimental to the Steelers. Getting the rushing going would also help Roethlisberger find a rhythm down the stretch as it would open up the passing game.
This season, Harris has rushed for 891 yards and six touchdowns. His season totals are solid, but the Steelers certainly need more from him. Hopefully, he can get things going next week against the Kansas City Chiefs.
1. TJ Watt will win Defensive Player of the Year
TJ Watt has had another dominant campaign this year, and he should come away with the Defensive Player of the Year award. He was the runner-up for the award last year but should be the frontrunner this year.
Watt has 17.5 sacks this season and is constantly wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks. He had 1.5 sacks against the Titans, along with one tackle for loss. Watt has led this Steelers defense to be an elite unit and formidable against any opponent.
With a few games left on the schedule, Watt's production will continue to be vital. He is the catalyst of the entire team, especially the defense.
Pittsburgh has a big stretch ahead as they try to make a playoff push in the tight AFC race. They likely need to win out as they are on the outside looking in right now. If Roethlisberger could go on a vintage run, it could jumpstart the Steelers to make it to the postseason.
Mike Tomlin has been a proven winner throughout his coaching career, and he will keep his team competitive. The experience level of this team could go a long way in getting ahead of some other teams.
The Steelers' clutch Week 15 win over the Titans is a good start heading into the final stretch.
