The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the New England Patriots at home in Week 14 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 14:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Mitch Trubisky

Why: I could easily suggest the offensive line, or something more specific like the red-zone offense, my X-Factor last week, will be the aspect to focus on. But in Week 14, on a short week, I’m going with the quarterback who has starting experience getting a chance to prove himself once again. Trubisky has an opportunity to show he can still start in the NFL. If not for the Steelers, for another team in the league who might want to give him a shot to compete. Will Trubisky throw caution into the wind and become a turnover machine? Will he play it too safe and be “Check down Mitch”? Or will he show the capabilities to still win games at the highest level? Let’s hope for the latter…

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: Whoever plays inside linebacker

Why: The Steelers defense was a shell of itself when Elandon Roberts went out of the game last week. I believe he truly is questionable for this game and it’s 50–50 as to whether not he plays. If he does, hopefully he can play at the same level he has been competing. If not, the others need to step up and hold down the middle of the Steelers defense rather than give it one large glaring weakness. With Coach Tomlin saying the green dot will go to Minkah Fitzpatrick if Roberts is out does alleviate some of the problem as they won’t be responsible for communication, so hopefully they can simply get the job done from snap to whistle.

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 New England Patriots in Week 14.