The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Seattle Seahawks on the road in Week 17 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 18:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Mason Rudolph

Why: There have been games where I suggested the offensive line, or the running game, were the X-Factors. All had their reasons, but this week I feel like this is a game Mason Rudolph needs to prove something. Sure, he’s orchestrated back-to-back games where the offense score 30+ points, but it’s the way he’s been doing it which has been impressive. Standing in the pocket, trusting his teammates, delivering good passes and dictating the game well behind center. The run game and protection are important, but can Rudolph continue to deliver for the Steelers? Can he do the unthinkable and resurrect their season on the way to a playoff berth? They have to win Saturday to make that even somewhat of a reality, and with that comes pressure. Will Rudolph stand tall, like has so many times in the pocket, or get sacked? That’s why he’s the X-Factor for me, and it’s also why I think he’ll stand tall and provide another win for the black-and-gold.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: Keeanu Benton

Why: Why not? I decided I was going to think a little bit outside the box here when it came to a specific player. Really what the Steelers need to do is to be able to slow down the Ravens rushing attack and force Tyler Huntley they have to beat them with his arm. If that is the case, then you bring back in the Steelers pass rush and other factors. But if I’m Baltimore, I’m not throwing the ball until the Steelers show that they can stop the run. And while I could easily have gone with one of the inside linebackers for this, I decided to go with the rookie. I would love to see Keeanu Benton just dominate the interior of the line and help to stifle the Ravens running game. I think he’s really come along this season and would love nothing more than to see it happen. So what am I hoping to do? Speak it into existence.

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 Week 18.