5 Key Points to Monitor in Bills vs. Steelers | NFL Playoffs
- Allen’s Playoff Prowess: While this marks the first playoff clash between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Buffalo Bills since the 1995 Divisional Playoff, quarterback Josh Allen’s performance in the Wild Card round is a consistent highlight. Allen has triumphed in his last three Wild Card playoff games, boasting a league-leading passer rating of 127.7. His remarkable statistics include a completion rate of almost 71%, an average of nearly 10 yards per pass attempt, 10 touchdowns, and an impressive average of almost 375 yards per game.
- Streamlined Steelers Offense: The Steelers enter the Wild Card game on a three-game winning streak, attributed to a more straightforward offensive approach under the guidance of offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner. Embracing a direct style, the Steelers prioritize a ground-oriented strategy, with running back Najee Harris playing a pivotal role. The team’s offensive production has seen an uptick, averaging 27 points per game in the last three outings with Mason Rudolph as the starting quarterback.
- Intermediate Impact: The Bills’ offense benefits from the emergence of rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid and second-year wide receiver Khalil Shakir in the passing game. Both players have excelled at the intermediate level, exploiting defensive vulnerabilities in the middle of the field. Pittsburgh’s struggles in pass coverage at the second level could provide opportunities for Kincaid and Shakir to contribute to Buffalo’s passing attack.
- Pittsburgh’s Turnover Tactics: While the absence of Defensive Player of the Year candidate T.J. Watt poses a challenge for the Steelers, their defense remains adept at forcing fumbles. With a focus on takeaway ability, Pittsburgh has forced 19 fumbles this season, ranking second in the league. The Steelers’ approach aims to control the clock through a ground-oriented attack and capitalize on turnovers to secure one-score victories.
- Buffalo’s Ground Game: Since Week 10, the Buffalo Bills have demonstrated a commitment to the running game, averaging a league-high 35.5 carries per game and nearly 155 yards on the ground. Running back James Cook, a key contributor during this stretch, has faced increased defensive attention recently. The success of the Bills’ ground game, particularly in adverse weather conditions, could be a determining factor in their playoff matchup against the Steelers.
