The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Los Angeles Rams on the road in Week 7, 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 7:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Kenny Pickett

Why: I’m just going to keep pounding this drum until there is a reason for me to stop doing so. It is time for Kenny Pickett to show up and put together a four quarter game to get fans feeling better. Sure, the offensive line has to do their job, and so does the play caller. But Pickett also has to elevate his game as well. Don’t leave the pocket too early, be accurate and on-time with throws, and show the kind of poise we’ve all seen at the end of games in Quarters 1,2 and 3 too! We’ve all been waiting for the complete Kenny Pickett game…will it comes in Week 7?

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: Minkah Fitzpatrick

Why: While going with any of the Steelers cornerbacks could be a decent choice on the defensive side of the ball as they will be asked to slow down the Rams receivers, when it comes to an individual player I’m going with Minkah Fitzpatrick. Not really getting into the “splash” game so far with the Steelers defense on 2023, Fitzpatrick seems like he’s ready to burst onto the scene to remind everyone why he’s the best safety in the NFL. Maybe it’s because the last time the Steelers played the Rams I was sitting in what was then called Heinz Field and watched Fitzpatrick score a defensive touchdown. If he can do so again against the Rams in LA, I think it would go a long way for a 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 Los Angeles Rams in Week 7.