The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 17, 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 the Week 17 game vs. the Chiefs:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Offensive Line

Why: The Steelers are an offense which goes as the offensive line goes. It may have taken us time to come to this simple realization, or at least me, but when the running game is going things are good. It also holds true in pass protection. The fact Chris Jones is questionable for the game, and certainly not 100% even if he does play, the Steelers offensive front has to win this battle. If they do, and they can both run and pass, they have a shot. If they can’t, then this could be another affair with Russell Wilson running for his life, throwing the ball away, and plays which are DOA (Dead On Arrival). The same can be true for the running game. If you want to avoid Najee Harris running into the linemen in front of him, give him a lane so he can create. If the offensive line wins, the Steelers could be victorious on Christmas day as well.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: James Pierre/Cory Trice

Why: Although the Pittsburgh Steelers are getting Donte Jackson back this week, they will be without their top corner in Joey Porter Jr. It has not been stated at the time of this writing who will be the other starting cornerback for the Steelers between James Pierre or Corey Trice Jr. Regardless of who it is, they’re going up against Patrick Mahomes and the 14–1 Kansas City Chiefs. While it is next man up, how successful the substitute starter in the secondary is may go a long way in determining the outcome of this game.

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 Chiefs in Week 1.