Steelers: Three Keys to Winning in Week 12
By Chris Ross
Take Advantage of Overwhelmed Ryan Finley
Even though he is undoubtedly the better player, Andy Dalton was benched earlier this season in favor of rookie Ryan Finley. For Cincinnati, the decision makes sense – evaluate a young quarterback in what is a lost season. Unfortunately, Finley has shown little in the way of NFL-level quarterback, struggling mightily in his two starts. In completing less than half of his passes with one touchdown and two interceptions, it’s looking more and more like Finley may be more of a career backup than a potential starter. Luckily, the Steelers defense looks primed to take advantage.
This is a Pittsburgh defense that no offense in the NFL wants to face, especially one with as little talent as Cincinnati’s unit. Minkah Fitzpatrick is a legitimate contender for Defensive Player of the Year and T.J. Watt may not be far behind him. The cornerback group, once one of the league’s most vulnerable position groups, has been completely transformed behind strong efforts from Joe Haden and Steven Nelson. Even the previously-disappointing Bud Dupree has played well, looking like the type of aggressive pass-rusher he was supposed to be when the Steelers spent their 2015 first-rounder on him. The defense is young, talented and ready to get back on track after the Browns offense was able to move the ball a bit against them.
Because this Steelers defense will be the best unit Finley has faced so far, it seems likely that he is in for a tough day. If the defense can get back on track and take advantage of the Bengals overwhelmed rookie, this could be an easy win for Pittsburgh.