The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Cincinnati Bengals at home in Week 16 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 16:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Offensive Line

Why: If the Steelers want to win another game this season, they will need to get a performance from their offensive line which is worthy of victory. What does that look like? Opening up holes in the running game, and keeping the pressure from forcing the quarterback into making early, or bad throws. Seems simple, right? Clearly it is easier said than done. Will this be the week the Steelers offensive line starts to get their acts together? I’m not holding my breathe, but I’ll say this…if Mason Rudolph stands a chance he’ll need the boys upfront playing their best football for that to happen.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: Whoever is playing safety

Why: A few weeks ago, it was “whoever is playing inside linebacker,” so the safeties said, “hold my beer.” At least by getting Elijah Riley back off of IR the Steelers have one of the top five players who started the season at the position, but he only played 40 snaps in 10 games before he was hurt. Regardless of who is there, they have to step up and hold down the middle of the field. Last week the Steelers were dealing with losing their top two remaining players at the position on back-to-back plays and having to adjust in-game, but with a week to prepare hopefully a decent plan can be devised. If whoever is on the field can hold things down, it will make a world of difference for the defense.

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 16.