The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to play the Baltimore Ravens on the road in Week 16, 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 Week 16 game vs. the Ravens:

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: Arthur Smith

Why: I’ve never been one to put a lot of blame on the coaching staff for players not executing, but I can’t ignore how bad the starts have been for the Steelers offense since Russell Wilson took over 8 games ago. The struggles early date back to Justin Fields time as the starter, but let’s focus on Wilson’s time at quarterback. I went back and looked at the first quarter point totals for the Steelers in Wilson’s time as the starter, and averaged out the number of points the team tallies in the first quarter. The answer? 4. That’s it. 4 flipping points. If the Steelers want to make a statement, they need a fast start vs. a very prolific offense in the Baltimore Ravens. No more, “let’s wait until the second half” offense, but an offense that comes out firing on all cylinders. In this case, the opening script does have a lot to do with the coaching staff. Throughout the season some have suggested the team is holding back some plays/personnel packages and more for the stretch run. Well, now would be the time to unleash something you’ve had up your sleeve for a while.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: T.J. Watt’s ankle

Why: T.J. Watt changes the game plan for NFL offenses. The difference between him playing and not playing is huge, but more importantly is his effectiveness on the field. It’ great that Watt is available for this week, but how much he can play and how much of the “typical T.J.” the Steelers get is the biggest question. If the ankle holds up where Watt is 100% when on the field and he doesn’t see a huge decrease in snaps, it’s that much better 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 Week 16.