The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Indianapolis Colts on the road in Week 4, 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 4 game vs. the Colts:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Justin Fields

Why: I have a feeling the Indianapolis Colts are going to be loading the box to try and stop the Steelers ground game. When you look at the numbers for the Colts rushing defense, they can’t just keep doing what they’ve been doing and expecting different results. With the box loaded, I foresee this game being one which Fields can open up on his own.

What do I mean? Not only using his arm, but also his legs with designed runs to exploit the Colts defense and forcing the Colts to back off the line of scrimmage. If Fields is successful, the run game will be huge for the Steelers in the second half. If he struggles, expect another low scoring, grind it out style of game.

Fields has been up to the challenge all year, and I expect him to be up to it in Week 4 on the road vs. the Colts.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: Cam & Company

Why: When you look at Anthony Richardson and the Colts offense, it should be obvious the best way to defend the Indianapolis attack. Stop the run. For some teams, this is easier said than done. In this regard, it will take a unique challenge of not just having to stop the likes of Jonathan Taylor, but also Richardson. If the Steelers can do that and limit the Colts’ running attack, it would put the ball into Richardson’s hands…right where the Steelers want it. Stopping the run is paramount in this game, and forcing obvious passing situations will hopefully equate to not just defensive success, but another Steelers victory.

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 Colts in Week 4.