The Pittsburgh Steelers have positioned themselves to control their own destiny for a playoff spot after winning back-to-back games, bringing their record to 8-6 with three regular-season games remaining.
Notably, as long as the Steelers avoid losing out, they will extend their streak of winning seasons, a run that has continued uninterrupted since 2004.
A key factor in Pittsburghâs consistency is the leadership of the teamâs longest-tenured player, captain Cameron Heyward. Drafted 31st overall in 2011, Heyward is in his 15th season with the Steelers.
Heywardâs impact goes beyond leadership and mentorship; he has been a standout performer on the field this season. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), he is currently ranked first among all interior defensive linemen in the NFL, with a grade of 90.1.
The longtime Steeler has been the definition of reliability this season. Over 703 defensive snaps, Heyward has not missed a single tackle, according to PFF.
At 36, Heyward remains productive but the clock is ticking on his long playing career. He is still chasing his first Super Bowl win, a goal the Steelers have a real chance to pursue this season.
GettySteelers Defensive Lineman Cameron Heyward.
How This Week’s Game Changes Playoff Odds
The Steelers currently have a 62% chance of making the playoffs. With a win on Sunday in Detroit against the Lions, those odds would rise to 75%, while a loss would drop them to 55%, according to Ali Bhanpuri of NFL.com.
The game comes with extreme pressure on the Lions, as they sit at 8-6 in a crowded NFC playoff picture. Detroit currently has a 44% chance of making the playoffs, which would rise to 55% with a win but drop all the way to 19% with a loss, according to Bhanpuri.
One team has been trending upward, while the other has been trending downward recently. Bryan DeArdo of CBS Sports wrote, “While both teams enter Sunday’s game with identical 8-6 records, the Steelers and Lions have been trending in different directions as of late. Pittsburgh has won its last two games while taking back control of the AFC North division. Conversely, Detroit has lost two of its last three games and is just 4-5 since its Week 8 bye.”
If the Steelers can stay hot and earn a third straight win, Heyward’s chances of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy before retirement rise immediately.
GettyThe Steelers play the Lions on Sunday.
A Great Career For Heyward
Heyward has not only been a standout player for the Black and Gold this season, but he has also left a major mark throughout his entire tenure in Pittsburgh.
According to Steelers.com, he is a ten-time team captain, seven-time Pro Bowler, 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year winner, and a six-time Steelers Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee, along with numerous other impressive accomplishments.
With Heyward leading the team and the Steelers in control of their playoff fate, this season could be the perfect chapter to cap off one of the most remarkable careers in franchise history.
GettyHeyward won the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year award.
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