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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

A month ago, the Steelers were out of the playoff race; but now everything is possible as the Pittsburgh team has a legitimate chance to make it to the playoffs. Notably, the Steelers won five of their last six games, and their rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett played a big part in reviving the Steelers’ season. Earlier, many doubted him, including former Steelers quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger. However, he recently admitted that he made a mistake by questioning him, as he apologized to the 24-year-old quarterback.

USA Today via Reuters

Notably, Roethlisberger is a Steelers legend who played 18 seasons with the team and won 3 Super Bowls. Pickett’s performances in recent games have been pretty impressive; hence, the former quarterback praised him massively and lauded his leadership on the field as a rookie.

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Ben Roethlisberger praises Kenny Pickett for his outstanding display on the field

In his weekly podcast, ‘Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger’, the Steelers legend said, I’m a big man, I can say this. I wasn’t sure what to expect with Kenny (Pickett)… I severely underestimated Kenny. I think he throws the ball better than I thought. He runs way better than I thought, he’s faster or just more elusive but he runs the ball way better than I expected. His decision-making is really good. His leadership, toughness, just enough of an edge. I apologize, that I did not make this vocal. Keep doing what you’re doing.

In the last game against the Ravens, Pickett performed really well, as he recorded one touchdown, throwing 168 yards. Praising his game against the Ravens, Roethlisberger said, He led them down the field two weeks in a row, and in Baltimore, where they hadn’t given up a touchdown in like 15 quarters or something like that.”

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The former QB felt Pickett was scrambling, throwing, and doing everything possible, especially in the last play, which eventually won them the game 16-13. “He probably could have ran it and done a safer thing, but he’s playing with confidence right now, it’s oozing out of him and his team,” Roethlisberger further said. 

Can the Steelers still qualify for the playoffs?

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After getting their 8th win against the Ravens, the Steelers need to win their last game against the Browns. After the NFL canceled the game between the Bills and the Bengals, the whole scenario changed. According to ‘Pro Football Talk’, there’s a possibility that eight teams from both conferences could play in the postseason. That means there won’t be any team getting a bye in round 1 of the playoffs.

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Although the playoff scenario is still uncertain, the Steelers can capitalize on the situation. However, if the Steelers do get in, they will most likely play one of the top teams, like the Bills or the Chiefs in the first round. Right now, they need to focus on winning against the Browns, which could open their path toward the playoffs.

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