Are you a fan of pure scripted professional football chaos? If so, meet Week 10 of the 2024 NFL Season. This week intensified the NFL scriptwriter memes and featured an unusual amount of close yet bad football games.
However, our top Team of the Week was not part of that scenario. Instead, they made a strong case for being the leader of their division.
Without further ado, our top team from Week 10 is the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Russ is Cooking Again
If you had told me two years ago that Russell Wilson would excel as quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, I would have thought you were crazy. However, since he took over as starter in Week 7, the Steelers are on a three-game winning streak. Those three victories came against the New York Jets, New York Giants, and Washington Commanders.
Russell Wilson in the 4th quarter with the Steelers:
– 11 completions on 14 throws
– 216 yards
– 3 TDs
– 0 INTs
– 15.4 yards per attempt
– 9 1st down conversions
– 158.3 passer ratingPerfect. pic.twitter.com/4OKB1mzEND
— Daniel Valente (@StatsGuyDaniel) November 11, 2024
In a highly competitive AFC North, any win is helpful for the Steelers’ postseason aspirations.
The NFL media pundits recognize the resurgence of Wilson in Allegheny County. In the most recent matchup against a strong Washington team, Wilson completed 14 of 28 passes for 195 yards and three touchdowns. The touchdowns were caught by wide receivers George Pickens and Mike Williams, along with tight end Pat Freiermuth.
George Pickens is a Menace
Speaking of Pickens, he has repeatedly demonstrated his role as a menace during Steelers games throughout his career. This was especially evident in the Steelers’ matchup this past Sunday.
For starters, Pickens is a menace to opposing defenses. Take Washington’s defense, for example; this is a top-five defensive unit, but they still surrendered five receptions and 91 yards to Pickens. His outing was highlighted by a spectacular two-handed touchdown catch. Everything about this catch was flawless: his concentration, body adjustment, and ability to maintain control while hitting the ground at Northwest Stadium were exceptional.
This CATCH by George Pickens 😳
The Steelers WR has to be one of the most gifted receivers the NFL has ever seen. pic.twitter.com/gD6VEHO4ij
— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) November 11, 2024
Another reason why Pickens is considered a menace was demonstrated during Wilson’s only interception of the game. With less than 90 seconds remaining in the third quarter, Wilson launched the ball into double coverage, resulting in an interception by safety Jeremy Chinn. As Chinn began to run the other way, Pickens delivered a powerful slam to a nearby Commander defender, reminiscent of a move from WWE.
The Newest Steelers Playmaker
The newest addition to the Steelers is wide receiver Mike Williams, who joined the team before the trade deadline last Tuesday.
Williams’ departure from the Jets was largely prompted by a pivotal moment during their game against the Buffalo Bills on Monday Night Football. While being targeted by Aaron Rodgers, Williams slipped on the MetLife Stadium turf, leading to a crucial interception by Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson. Rodgers called out Williams publicly, and shortly after, the Jets traded for wide receiver Davante Adams, who is a close friend of the future Hall of Fame quarterback.
Williams made a strong first impression on his new team with a game-sealing 32-yard touchdown catch, especially considering he hadn’t even been with the Steelers for a week. As he continues to adjust to the offense, Williams and Pickens have the potential to form an amazing wide receiver duo in Pittsburgh.
Mike Williams with the #redline on an IG post… pic.twitter.com/wJKmcEOB3c
— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) November 11, 2024
Mike Tomlin Proves the Haters Wrong
Since switching quarterbacks in Week 7, the Pittsburgh Steelers have thrived. Initially, many in the NFL media did not believe this move would be successful. However, credit goes to head coach Mike Tomlin for making the midseason switch to Wilson once he recovered from a calf injury.
The Steelers have demonstrated why they deserve to lead the AFC North. Next week, they will host the Baltimore Ravens, who are coming off a victory and, like the Steelers, are vying for the top spot in the division. The winner of this upcoming game will be the sole leader of the AFC North.
With Pickens proving to be a significant asset on the field, Wilson leading the team on a three-game winning streak, and Williams getting more involved, the Steelers have a strong chance of claiming first place in the AFC North.
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