The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Green Bay Packers at home in Week 10, and there are certain aspects of the game which can be difficult to predict. Of course, the outcome of the game is paramount, but there are players or position groups who could be viewed as X-Factors.

What is an X-Factor? That definition is an important part of this exercise. If I were to give you a player who was the ultimate X-Factor in Steelers history, it would be Troy Polamalu. Polamalu was able to take over a game almost single-handedly. Whether it being a tackle made where he looked like a heat-seeking missile, or a clutch interception. A game could tilt the Steelers’ way because of Troy.

With the definition out of the way, let’s see who are the X-Factors for the Steelers in Week 10:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: The offense

Why: The firing of Matt Canada appeased the global fan base, but did it fix the issues fans have seen the past two years? There is only one way to find out, and that will be with someone else is calling the play and constructing the game plan for the Bengals in Week 12. Worst-case scenario? Nothing changes, and it’s just more of the same. Best-case scenario is the Steelers offense looks markedly better and the hope of brighter days ahead lift up the fan base down the stretch run.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: Joey Porter Jr.

Why: The two biggest weapons the Bengals have on offense who are available this week are wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase and running back Joe Mixon. If a new quarterback can get things going with Chase, the Bengals can still be a very dangerous offense. Earlier this week, Joey Porter Jr. indicated he would be following Chase to matchup with him regardless of which side of the field he was on. If the Steelers rookie is going up against the Bengals best player, he is the most important player on the defense this week.

Who is your X-Factor for the game? Let us know in the comment section below, and be sure to stay tuned to SCN for the latest news and notes surrounding the Steelers as they prepare for the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 12.