The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Arizona Cardinals at home in Week 13 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 13:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Red-Zone Offense

Why: The Steelers offense has been running the ball well over the past several games, and the passing game started to catch up in Week 12. However, there was one key factor missing from the 400+ yard outburst vs. the Bengals last week in Cincinnati. That would be points scored. Sure, explosive plays outside the red-zone are great, but the offense went 1-for-4 when it mattered most. If they convert at just 50% the score is not only lopsided, but also more comfortable. Against a sub-par Cardinals defense, if they can improve in the red area they should be on their way to the 8th victory of 2023.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: Minkah Fitzpatrick

Why: After missing four games, Minkah Fitzpatrick finds himself coming back to a defense that has found their way and is the number one scoring defense over the middle third of the 2023 season. But Fitzpatrick has yet to have an interception this season. Coming back into the fold, and the Steelers playing admirably in his absence, perhaps now Fitzpatrick will have the freedom and ability to add a splash play against the Cardinals.

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 Arizona Cardinals in Week 13.