Forget late division games; Mark Madden Issues rally cry ahead of Steelers Schedule

**The Steelers’ Schedule: Challenges and Opportunities**

The NFL scheduling hasn’t been too kind to the Steelers, but it’s not all doom and gloom. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:

### Key Points:
1. **Late Division Matchups:**
– Not facing a division rival until Week 11 isn’t a significant issue. Timing of games is less crucial than overall performance.
– This could be beneficial for the Steelers, giving time for their new quarterback, offensive coordinator, and rookie offensive linemen to settle in. By Week 11, they might be in sync.

2. **Tough Quarterbacks at Season’s End:**
– The Steelers will face elite quarterbacks like Joe Burrow, Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson, and Patrick Mahomes in the last six weeks.
– Despite the challenge, these games have to be played eventually, and it’s better to be prepared by then.

3. **Difficult Schedule in the Second Half:**
– The Steelers can offset a tough second half by performing well in the easier first half. Aiming for a strong start, such as winning Week 1 against Atlanta (where they are underdogs), is crucial.

### Legitimate Concerns:
1. **Intense Three-Game Stretch:**
– Playing three games in 11 days (Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Kansas City) is a tough stretch, concluding with a Christmas game against the Chiefs. These are three elite opponents in a very short span.

2. **Unusual Game Day:**
– Playing on a Wednesday is highly unusual and disrupts the routine. The Steelers will play games on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, which is a chaotic schedule.

3. **Three Short Weeks in the Second Half:**
– These short weeks add significant stress and recovery challenges for the players.

### Broader NFL Issues:
– The NFL’s scheduling and additional games indicate a lack of concern for player welfare. The push towards a longer season (potentially 20 games) and unnecessary off-season activities like OTAs and minicamps are more about maintaining a 24/7/365 media presence than player health.

### Players’ Role:
– The players’ association (NFLPA) has agreed to these conditions through collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), often prioritizing game checks and personal freedoms over long-term health concerns.

### Predictions and Team Analysis:
– Initially, the Steelers were expected to finish 10-7 or 9-8. However, the tough schedule might cost them a win or two.
– Key games to win include Week 1 at Atlanta and Week 3 at home against the Los Angeles Chargers. Early losses could derail their season.

### Team Strengths and Weaknesses:
– **Quarterback:** Kenny Pickett is promising but not yet on par with elite quarterbacks in the AFC North.
– **Pass-Catchers:** The receiving corps is among the weakest in the NFL.
– **Defense:** While there are elite players, the defense as a whole may not perform at an elite level.
– **Offensive Line:** Features two rookies and a second-year player, indicating potential but also inexperience.
– **Offensive Style:** The run-first approach with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren feels outdated compared to high-scoring offenses led by star quarterbacks.

### Conclusion:
– The Steelers face significant challenges both from their schedule and internal team dynamics. While a quirky schedule adds to the difficulty, the team’s broader issues, such as quarterback play, receiving talent, and defensive consistency, are more pressing concerns. To succeed, the Steelers need to leverage the early part of the season to build momentum and cohesion, giving them a fighting chance in the tougher second half.