In a game which the Pittsburgh Steelers dominated in nearly every statistical category, their inability to convert scoring opportunities once again made the outcome too close for comfort. Considering that the Steelers finished the game at Cincinnati’s Paycor Stadium with an advantage of 22-10 in first downs, 421-222 in total yards, and 37:17-22:43 in time of possession, it’s surprising their final margin on the scoreboard was a mere six points. But given the sorry showing of the Black-and-gold offense in recent weeks, the tangible improvements we witnessed in Cincinnati certainly came as a welcome change.

Avoiding the embarrassment of losing a second straight game to a divisional rival led by a backup QB, the Steelers took some definite strides forward in the Jungle. Kenny Pickett passed for 278 yards and notched a 97.8 rating. The dynamic duo of Najee Harris (15 carries for 99 yards) and Jaylen Warren (13 carries for 49 yards) combined for 148 yards rushing. Having gotten his feet wet last Sunday in Cleveland after his extended injury layoff, Pat Freiermuth was the Steelers’ leading receiver with 9 catches for 120 yards (13.3-yard average). Freiermuth’s performance included 24- and 29-yard catches in the first quarter, as well as other key catches to sustain offensive drives. George Pickens and Diontae Johnson combined for 108 yards on 7 catches including a 39-yard grab by Johnson in the second quarter and a 43-yarder by Pickens in the fourth quarter.

Most importantly, these chunk plays showcased Pickett’s ability to deliver accurate, pro-level throws when he’s given adequate protection. In this case, having Freiermuth available seemed to revitalize the offense.

Overall, the Steelers offense performed much better than we’ve seen in quite some time. The fact that so many different players contributed to the effort was something we also haven’t seen recently. Despite their low point total, it appeared the Steelers were using their entire stable of offensive talent and doing so more effectively. Unfortunately, the Steelers converted only 1 of 4 red zone opportunities. On the other hand, the offense converted 8 of 17 third down situations, a mark considerably better than they’ve reached in previous weeks. The Black-and-gold’s kicking game also was solid with Chris Boswell hitting all three of his FG attempts and Pressley Harvin III punting four times for a 43-yard average.

Defensively, the Steelers continued to thwart the opponent and give their offense ample opportunities. Elandon Roberts (6 tackles) and T.J. Watt (5 tackles) led the defensive charge and Watt added two sacks to his league-leading total. Trenton Thompson and Mykal Walker also made key contributions to the effort. Thompson had five solo tackles and a key, third-quarter interception that halted a Cincinnati scoring drive. Walker had a total of five tackles including four solo stops. Nick Herbig notched a key sack. Offering welcome evidence of his recovery from a nagging groin injury, Cameron Heyward had four tackles including three solo stops and one sack.

Obviously, the Steelers still have plenty of room for improvement. But the decline of their divisional rivals Cleveland and Cincinnati down the stretch run seems likely as they attempt to salvage their seasons without their franchise QBs. The fact that the Steelers offense appears to be improving, albeit modestly, at the very same time that the Browns’ and Bengals’ ships appear to be sinking inspires confidence that Pittsburgh is currently in a good position at 7-4 to secure a playoff berth in December.

Nevertheless, as we’ve seen quite clearly, there’s no such thing as an easy game for these Steelers. The Arizona Cardinals and New England Patriots are coming to Pittsburgh during the next two weeks while struggling with their own significant issues. It’s up to the Steelers to take advantage of this situation and not stumble again as they did last Sunday in Cleveland.

To reach their initial goal of securing a playoff berth, the Steelers’ offense must expand on the improvement we saw in Cincinnati. A key aspect of this improvement will be Kenny Pickett’s ability to demonstrate, as he did in Cincinnati, that he commands all of the capabilities necessary to become Pittsburgh’s franchise QB.