T.J. Watt on playoff chances: Steelers focused on taking care of ‘our business’ vs. Ravens
T. J. As for their playoff chances, the Steelers took care of “our business” against the Ravens.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are ranked No. 9 in the AFC heading into Saturday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens, looking for a chance to make the playoffs after being eliminated last season. Pittsburgh still needs help, so a win against Baltimore doesn’t guarantee a playoff spot. The Steelers don’t technically need a win to make the postseason, but having a W makes it a much easier path. For rim pusher, T.J. Watt, the only goal is to get the job done and let the chips fall where they may on a Saturday afternoon.
“The biggest message this week is to focus on us in this game,” Watt told the team’s official website. “We’re in a situation where we’re not sure if we should do it. Must. Finally, if we don’t take action. Minding our own business sounds so cliche, but it doesn’t matter. “We have to make sure everyone in this locker room understands the importance of this game and puts our business first.”
Next Generation Statistics currently gives Pittsburgh a 46% chance to make the playoffs. A win increases the chance to 66%, a loss increases the chance to 16%. The Steelers will clearly be favored to make the playoffs. Home losses to Arizona and New England are tough. But given how poor the offense has been this season, they might have a chance. It’s a testament to Mike Tomlin’s club and a defense that has allowed 19.6 points per game despite multiple injuries.
“Obviously you want to go in there by yourself and not need help,” Watt said. At the same time, we spare no expense in this service and just have to do our own business. I’ve been in this position before.
“And like I said, nothing matters if we don’t do our job.”
The Steelers posted Tomlin’s 17th consecutive undefeated season, the earliest of his head coaching career. Pittsburgh also has the second-most franchise hitting record over .500 for 20 years (behind Dallas’ 21 from 1965 to 1985).
Watt is also on the brink of history as the Steelers attempt to return to the postseason. A running back tied for the most in the NFL with 17.0 sacks (Trey Hendrickson). If Watt wins this season, he would become the only player in NFL history to lead the NFL in sacks in three different seasons since the stat became official in 1982. Fortunately, Watt won’t have to add Lamar Jackson to his baskets this season like he did on Saturday.
Eagles’ Haason Reddick on changing defense by changing play caller: ‘It’s hard to do’
Time is running out for the Eagles to break their playoff spiral, and Philadelphia quarterback Haason Reddick admitted it will be difficult to sort things out before the playoffs after a defensive call a few weeks ago. Cowboys QB Dak Prescott completed a historic turnaround after leading the league in interceptions last season.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott’s goal to stop high-profile interceptions starting in 2022 has become a reality. That’s because the 30-year-old is poised to halve his INT total and finish the year as one of the NFL’s leaders.
Veteran running back Dalvin Cook is expected to sign with the Baltimore Ravens after clearing unclaimed waivers, NFL Network pundit Tom Pelissero reported Thursday.
