The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Baltimore Ravens on the road in the Wild Card Round of the AFC Playoffs, 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 playoff game vs. the Ravens:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Russell Wilson

Why: This is why you brought in Russell Wilson. He’s that “been there, done that” quarterback who has won when it matters most. He’s done it on the road, in rough conditions, and he’s hoisted himself a Lombardi trophy. This is why you brought in a veteran leader to win games like this. It’s time for Wilson to start performing like a veteran quarterback and go out and play a clean brand of football, while still taking necessary risks to win big games. Wilson can rectify the past poor performances with a strong performance in the playoffs, but this is why the Steelers brought him in. Time for Wilson to step up.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: DeShon Elliott

Why: There are so many different players who could be chosen here for the defense. There are the obvious superstars such as T.J. Watt or Cam Heyward. I was also very tempted to go with Patrick Queen and stopping the running game. So why did I go with DeShon Elliott? He missed the last matchup with the Ravens, and I want to see how much of a difference it was that he wasn’t on the field. Plus, with Zay Flowers out, the biggest threats in the passing game for the Ravens are the tight ends. If Elliott is making plays, that’s great news for the Steelers defense.

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 Ravens in the playoffs.