Tom's Ten Takes: Steelers Vs. Bills - Key Matchup Analysis and Insights

2023 Steelers season recap: 10 hot takes from each game, including Bills' offense, Mason Rudolph, and team's over/underachieving. #NFL #Steelers

After each game in the 2023 Steelers season, I will once again be sharing my 10 takes. These aren't meant to be hot takes that shock the world. Instead, they are instant reactions to the game written while still in that period just following the game when emotions are high and ideas are fresh. I'll be sharing thoughts, observations, queries, and reasons that caused me to yell at the television.

The Super Wild Card Week vs. Buffalo Bills was a tough game, and here are my 10 takes:

1. Ain't No Stopping Us Now - The Buffalo Bills played a strong offensive game. Playing without T.J. Watt certainly hurt the Steelers, but it's hard to say if he would have made enough of a difference. The Bills' offense was only stopped by their own mistakes, including poor tackling, coverage issues, and allowing big holes in the run game.

2. Number 2 Likes Number 1 - Mason Rudolph tends to lock onto his first read, which limits the offense's potential. He needs to work on going through his progressions to generate more offense.

3. Special Spark - Once again, the offense got a kick from the defense, this time through special teams. Montravius Adams' block set up a short field for the Steelers' first score and kept them in the game.

4. He Who Hesitates - Josh Allen's impressive 52-yard run showcased the Steelers' defensive play weaknesses. The hesitation of defenders allowed Allen to make a big play.

5. Blame Bill - Quarterbacks have adopted the philosophy of overreacting and begging for a flag on every hit. This tactic has become commonplace in the league.

6. Run Vs. Pass Hits - There should be different rules for hitting quarterbacks on designed runs. Quarterbacks should not get the benefit of the doubt when they choose to run.

7. Protect One, Protect All - The NFL needs to ensure consistency in enforcing player safety rules across the league, not just for quarterbacks.

8. I Can't Call That - Referees need to ensure that penalties are called accurately and fairly, especially in crucial moments of the game.

9. Pickens' Potential - George Pickens has shown flashes of brilliance and has the potential to be a star with the right quarterback and coordinator.

10. Over? Under? Both? - Looking back on the season, it's hard to determine if the Steelers overachieved or underachieved. They had moments of brilliance and moments of disappointment, leaving their overall performance in question.

Overall, the game against the Bills showcased both the strengths and weaknesses of the Steelers, leaving fans with much to ponder as they look ahead to the next season.