Steelers Fight for Playoff Position as Colts Bring Back Philip Rivers
PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at a critical juncture in their season, standing at 7-6 and fighting for their playoff lives. With the ability to outpace the Baltimore Ravens, the Steelers control their own destiny in the quest for the AFC North title. Yet, the question looms: once they secure a playoff spot, what will their trajectory look like?
The Steelers have long been recognized for their consistency, rarely finishing with a losing record. Head coach Mike Tomlin, often praised for his ability to lead teams into the postseason, isn’t facing calls for his job. Instead, the focus shifts to the team’s performance once they reach the playoffs. Historically, the Steelers have struggled in the postseason, raising concerns about whether they can break that trend. Enter Philip Rivers, a potential game changer.
Rivers’ Unexpected Return to the NFL
In a surprising twist, the Indianapolis Colts have signed Philip Rivers to their practice squad, reigniting hopes for their playoff chances. At 44 years old, Rivers is stepping back onto the field after a two-year hiatus, and he now finds himself in the unique position of being the oldest active quarterback in the league. After a notable career that includes a nomination for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Rivers is now on a mission to help the Colts secure a playoff berth.
The Colts’ decision to bring Rivers back comes in the wake of injuries to their current quarterbacks. Daniel Jones is out for the season due to an Achilles tear, and Anthony Richardson remains sidelined with no clear return date. With the Colts trailing the AFC South by one game and just half a game behind in the wild card race, Rivers’ experience could be the lifeline they need.
Implications for the Steelers
Rivers’ return could have significant ramifications for the Steelers. With him at the helm, the Colts are back in contention for both the division title and a wild card spot. For Pittsburgh, a favorable outcome might hinge on their desire to face the Colts instead of other formidable opponents. Currently, if the Steelers win the AFC North, they would likely face the fifth-seeded Los Angeles Chargers, who already defeated them 25-10 earlier this season.
The sixth seed is occupied by the Buffalo Bills, who recently bested the Steelers 26-7 at Acrisure Stadium, while the seventh seed belongs to the Houston Texans, boasting one of the league’s toughest defenses. The Steelers would prefer to see the Colts climb the wild card standings, potentially setting up a rematch in Pittsburgh—where they previously secured a 27-20 victory against Indianapolis earlier this year.
The news of Rivers’ return has left many, including Tomlin, in disbelief, underscoring the rarity of such a situation in the NFL. Pittsburgh fans are now left hoping that Rivers can harness his experience and lead the Colts to a playoff berth, which could ultimately benefit the Steelers’ postseason aspirations.
As the season continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Rivers and the Colts, and the implications his return may have for the Steelers’ playoff hopes.
