As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for the 2024 NFL season, the buzz around their season win total has reached a fever pitch. Initially set at 7.5, savvy bettors have pushed it to 8.5, driven by fresh faces in the quarterback room.
With Russell Wilson joining the squad and Justin Fields making his way from Chicago, fans are eager to see how these changes will impact the team’s fortunes.
After three straight seasons of winning nine or 10 games, will this be the year they finally break through to make a deep playoff run, or will the Steelers collapse altogether?
2024 NFL Season Win Totals Picks: Pittsburgh Steelers
Why the Steelers Could Win Over 8.5 Games
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a shot at surpassing 8.5 wins in the 2024 season, and here’s why it makes sense. First off, they’ve added some serious depth to their quarterback situation. While bringing in Russell Wilson might not seem like a blockbuster move, given his recent struggles with the Broncos, don’t overlook the experience he brings. With 12 years under his belt and a solid record that places him ahead of last season’s starter, Kenny Pickett, Wilson gives the Steelers a more reliable option. Plus, if Wilson falters, they have Justin Fields, who showcased impressive athleticism despite a rocky stint in Chicago and could flourish in a new environment.
Now, let’s talk about that defense. The Steelers are known for their defensive prowess, and last year was no exception. With an average of just 19.1 points allowed per game, they finished with one of the league’s best defensive records, and returning stars like T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick ensure that top-tier talent remains on the field. Pittsburgh even bolstered their roster by signing Pro Bowl linebacker Patrick Queen. So, with a strong defense and an improved quarterback situation, they have a recipe for success.
Let’s not forget about Mike Tomlin, either. His track record speaks volumes; under his leadership, the Steelers have never dipped below .500. He’s consistently led his teams to at least nine wins since the NFL expanded the regular season to 17 games. If history tells us anything, it’s that Tomlin knows how to squeeze wins out of his squads. While the path to over 8.5 wins isn’t guaranteed, the Steelers have laid a solid foundation and have every reason to feel optimistic heading into the season.
Why the Steelers Could Win Under 8.5 Games
While the Steelers have made some notable changes heading into 2024, several factors could hinder their chances of exceeding 8.5 wins. First, the quarterback situation, although upgraded, may not be as reliable as hoped. Wilson, now at 35 years old, could be a shadow of his former self, and bringing in Fields, while a smart backup move, does not guarantee instant success.
This uncertainty in the quarterback camp is compounded by a concerning lack of offensive depth. With the departure of Diontae Johnson, a crucial playmaker, the receiving corps has become a significant question mark. Although they’ve brought in Quez Watkins and Van Jefferson, both of whom struggled last season, it raises concerns about their ability to step up. Their rookie addition, Roman Wilson, shows potential but is still unproven in the NFL.
Moreover, the offensive line may face challenges. Pittsburgh’s choice of rookie center Zach Frazier could lead to growing pains, especially since he’s stepping into a crucial role. Transitioning from College Football to the NFL isn’t straightforward, and Wilson’s ability to mitigate mistakes will be key.
Then, there’s the brutal schedule that awaits them. The AFC North is a minefield, packed with tough teams like the Bengals, Ravens and Browns – all serious playoff contenders. Adding to the challenge is the fact that Pittsburgh’s opponents for the season have an average win total of 9.1, the highest in the league. With seven matchups against top-tier teams, the path to victories is fraught with difficulty. The Steelers will need a stellar start to the season if they hope to overcome the gauntlet that follows in the latter half. Thus, while optimism is warranted, the road ahead is significantly daunting.
Bottomline
The NFL odds show that Pittsburgh is poised to win under 8.5 games. However, with a revamped quarterback situation and an elite defense, the Steelers are well-positioned to surprise many. While there’s risk involved, don’t be surprised if the Steelers surpass expectations and achieve nine or more wins in the upcoming season. As always, only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: It’s going to be an exciting ride for Steelers fans.
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*Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire – USA TODAY Sports*
