Pittsburgh Steelers thinking playoffs: Win total examined for 2014 season

After two disappointing seasons without a playoff appearance, the Steelers are hoping the cracks in their façade have been fixed. The past two years the team has been plagued with injuries and mediocrity, two areas the Steelers avoided during its strong run.

Last season the offense ranked 12th in passing while dipping to 28th rushing, despite the solid effort of rookie running back Le’Veon Bell. On the defensive side of the ball, the Steelers were 9th against the pass but only 21st against the rush.

Last year’s first-round draft pick Jarvis Jones made little impact, which is why the team once against turned its attention to the defense with first pick inside linebacker Ryan Shazier and defensive end Stephon Tuitt.

Looking to this season, the Steelers face six playoff teams with an overall schedule featuring opponents boasting a .461 winning percentage last year (28th in the league). Furthermore, the Steelers will be playing four different sets of back-to-back road games, which could be tough for a team dealing with Father Time.

Oddsmakers have Pittsburgh posted at 8.5 for o/u wins. While the Steelers could reach double digits, it depends on the team’s offense. That said, taking the under could be the pick here.