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 17:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Running Game

Why: The Seahawks don’t have the vaunted defense they once did when the Legion of Boom reigned supreme in the great northwest. If there is one part of the defense which is leaking oil in a bad way for the Seahawks, it would be their run defense. That should play to the Steelers’ strength, and the news of Devin Bush getting the start at inside linebacker should be a welcome sight for the likes of Najee Harris and/or Jaylen Warren. When you go on the road, the best way to win is to limit turnovers, and grind out the clock. That would equate in a solid running game, and if the Steelers can get that going they might just keep their playoff hopes alive for another week.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: Levi Wallace

Why: When it comes to the Seattle Seahawks passing game, they have three quality wide receivers if all are able to play. With multiple options when passing the ball, the Seahawks would be wise to go with the Steelers weakest link. For this reason, I expect Levi Wallace to be targeted often on Sunday afternoon. Whether or not Wallace is up to the task may very well determine the outcome of the game. So for this week, it’s not about this player doing great as much as it is this player not being too big of a problem.

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 Seahawks in Week 17