The Pittsburgh Steelers enter their Week 10 matchup against the Washington Commanders as underdogs. When this game first appeared on the schedule, many assumed it would be one of the easier stops on Pittsburgh's tough slate. However, with the Commanders sitting at 7-2 and the Steelers close behind at 6-2, this game now promises to be a hard-fought battle between two playoff-caliber teams. Washington has consistently demonstrated one of the league’s most balanced rosters, making this a critical test for Pittsburgh.

Jared Wickerham / Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers' Russell Wilson drops back to pass during a Sunday Night Football game against the New York Jets.

After an impressive start, the Steelers' offense has shown surprising improvement under veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, who’s found a rhythm with his new team. Wilson’s poise and leadership have sparked a newfound confidence, and Pittsburgh's offense has become a focal point of their success. With a well-rounded team performance and some key wins, the Steelers have started to gain respect across the league, with analysts discussing them as potential Super Bowl contenders—a label that seemed unlikely for this squad just a few months ago.

Stephen A. Smith, a vocal fan of the Steelers, has enjoyed watching Pittsburgh's resurgence and is impressed by their tenacity. While he’s praised their strong start, Smith isn’t ready to label them as legitimate contenders just yet, urging them to prove themselves against top-tier opponents like the Commanders. 

"Don't be sold because the Steelers haven't won a playoff game since 2016," Smith said. "Don't be sold because since TJ Watt arrived, he's 0/4 in the playoffs. That's a reason not to be sold."

Smith’s cautious optimism mirrors the sentiment of some fans who are hopeful, but are waiting for the Steelers to demonstrate consistency against elite competition. This game against Washington offers Pittsburgh a perfect opportunity to show they’re for real.

AP Photo / Matt Freed

Steelers' TJ Watt sacks Browns' Deshaun Watson in Pittsburgh, PA.

Smith made a notable point about Watt, emphasizing that despite Watt's stellar career with the Steelers, he has yet to win a playoff game since joining the team. Watt has consistently ranked among the league's top players, and he's currently having another dominant season as the frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year. Despite his individual success and remarkable performances, the elusive playoff victory remains absent from Watt's resume.

This is no reflection on Watt’s abilities. If he had been fully healthy during the 2023 postseason, the Steelers might have pulled off an upset against the Buffalo Bills. Watt has repeatedly been a game-changer for Pittsburgh; without him, the team has a dreadful 1-10 record, a testament to his undeniable impact and value. His contributions have often single-handedly kept the Steelers in contention, and he’s excelled despite having to carry struggling offenses.

Steelers Need To Get TJ Watt A Playoff Win In 2024

Getting Watt a playoff win in 2024 has become a top priority, especially given the Steelers' promising start. Smith is wise not to label Pittsburgh as serious Super Bowl contenders just yet—they still have much to prove. 

Matt Freed / Post-Gazette

Steelers' TJ Watt and Cam Heyward jog before practice starts.

But using Watt as a reason to doubt them falls flat; if anything, his brilliance has kept the Steelers competitive. As the team heads into their Week 10 clash against Washington, another win would solidify them as a legitimate threat and turn more heads across the league. The Steelers made some big moves at the trade deadline and have an even better roster now. There's a reason to believe in this Steelers team.

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