Turning the Tide: Is There Hope for the Steelers in 2025?

At this point, it is what it is.

The Steelers sit at 6-5 and have underachieved on both sides of the ball, largely due to questionable coaching decisions and schematic issues. Quite frankly, they’ve been the very definition of mediocrity. Even during their 4-1 start, there were signs this could unravel—and it has, in a big way.

So, with all that said, can the Steelers turn things around and play winning football? Is there still a chance to improve and make a playoff push this season? Here are three reasons fans should hold on to some optimism during this rough stretch:

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✅ 1. The Offensive Line Is Finally Clicking

In recent weeks, the Steelers’ offensive line has transformed from a liability into a strength. Against Chicago, they allowed zero sacks (aside from Darnell Washington’s mishaps) and just two pressures on 35 dropbacks, earning a 97.1 pass-blocking efficiency rating. They also paved the way for a season-high 186 rushing yards at 5.2 yards per carry. This surge has propelled them to No. 5 in Pro Football Network’s offensive line rankings.

The young core—Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick, and Troy Fautanu—is improving every week. A strong line stabilizes the offense, regardless of quarterback play, and sustains the run game. Offensive line coach Pat Meyer deserves major credit for this turnaround.

✅ 2. The Running Game Is Trending Up

After years of inconsistency, Pittsburgh’s ground attack is finally showing signs of life. They’ve rushed for 100+ yards in three straight games, including 147 yards against Cincinnati and 186 against Chicago. Jaylen Warren has averaged 7.9 yards per carry in recent outings, while Kenneth Gainwell adds versatility as a receiving threat.

The numbers aren’t eye-popping, but both backs have delivered when it matters—highlighted by Gainwell’s 55-yard run on 4th-and-1 against the Bears. A strong run game shortens contests, protects the defense, and keeps the team competitive against high-powered offenses. The missing piece? A vertical passing game to stretch defenses—but that’s a discussion for another day.

✅ 3. A Manageable Path Despite a Brutal Schedule

Yes, the Steelers face one of the league’s toughest remaining slates (Bills, Ravens twice, Dolphins, Lions). But here’s the silver lining: they’ve already beaten Cleveland and Cincinnati, and the AFC North remains a two-team race.

At 6-5, Pittsburgh controls its destiny with two games against Baltimore and a winnable Week 17 matchup versus the Browns. If they split with the Ravens and steal one from Miami or Detroit, a 10-7 finish is still possible. The division is volatile, and the Steelers thrive in ugly, close games. Since Big Ben’s retirement, they’re 24-11 in one-score contests.

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There are still fundamental flaws—many that will take an offseason or two to fix. For now, though, there’s a season to play and time to make adjustments. Success will come from maximizing strengths while adapting on the fly to address weaknesses. It starts with head coach Mike Tomlin embracing flexibility and acknowledging that the current philosophy isn’t working. A shift in approach could benefit the team both now and in the long term.