5 Things We Learned From the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 14

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Run Game Remains Strong

The Steelers made another strong effort to run the football in Week 14, which paid dividends as they pulled ahead in the second half. If the Steelers are going to win football games in January and beyond, they need their offensive line to play at a high level and their run game duo to continue finding holes. That was again present on Sunday afternoon, where the Steelers registered 120 yards rushing. It might not seem like a significant number, but yards are hard to come by in these divisional matchups. 

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Committee Approach Gets Job Done

Without their alpha wideout George Pickens in the lineup on Sunday, the Steelers needed multiple pass catchers to step up and make catches. That's precisely what happened, with four players recording 25 or more receiving yards. It wasn't a dominant showing through the air, but the Steelers got key catches in situations where they needed them most. That's the sign of a strong game plan and well-coached group. 

Alex Highsmith Return Provides Boost

The Steelers haven't had the type of production we're used to seeing from them off the edge this year. Some of the injuries they've dealt with are a big reason for that. With all their pristine talent back on the field together in Week 14 against Cleveland, their edge rushers made their presence known. Alex Highsmith is an integral part of this defense, and in his return, he finished with a big sack to help lead the team to a divisional win. 

Keeanu Benton Deserves More Credit

If there's one player on the Pittsburgh Steelers defense that deserves more credit, it's Keeanu Benton. The former Wisconsin Badger had a critical interception in the win, which isn't something you're accustomed to saying for a player in the trenches like him. Benton does some nice things for the Steelers' defense in clogging up running lanes, and we're happy to give him some recognition here. 

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