The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Dallas Cowboys at home in Week 5, 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 5 game vs. the Cowboys:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Offensive Line

Why: The Pittsburgh Steelers have had a revolving door along the offensive line since the start of the season, but with Isaac Seumalo returning to the team there is a feeling their anchor has returned. He should help Zach Frazier, and be a calming force along the offensive line. The hope is Seumalo’s return combined with gained experience for a player like Mason McCormick results in big results vs. the Cowboys. The Dallas defense has struggled vs. the run in the first four weeks of the season, and this would be a tremendous game to see the running game get some serious push to dominate the line of scrimmage, and the time of possession. The Steelers haven’t been able to impose their will on defenses this season, but the hope is they are capable of doing that vs. the porous Dallas defense on Sunday Night Football.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: T.J. Watt’s 100th career sack

Why: Last week T.J. Watt was shut out in the sack department and failed to reach 100 career regular season sacks as he currently sits at 99.5 (he would have enough including the postseason). With the Steelers coming off of a poor defensive performance, coming back to Pittsburgh, playing in prime time in front of a national audience, and going up against another storied franchise with a historical rivalry, it’s the perfect storm for T.J. Watt to not only hit 100 sacks but go beyond. And if T.J. Watt is wrecking the game, it is infectious to his teammates and good things happen for the Steelers.

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 Cowboys in Week 5.