Complementing recent coverage of DK Metcalf's return and surging momentum from their AFC North-clinching win over the Ravens, the Pittsburgh Steelers must overcome a persistent playoff trend of slow starts when hosting the Houston Texans' elite defense on Monday night at frigid Acrisure Stadium.
The Steelers enter this AFC wild card matchup with a history of sluggish postseason openings that has contributed to their six-game playoff losing streak. Recoveries that worked in the regular season, like against Baltimore last week, have proven elusive in January.
Past examples highlight the pattern: trailing 10-0 after one quarter in the 2016-17 AFC Championship vs. New England; down 14-0 (then 21-0) vs. Jacksonville in 2017; a 28-0 first-quarter deficit to Cleveland in 2020; halftime holes like 21-7 to Kansas City, 14-0 early to Buffalo, and 7-0 to the Ravens. Pittsburgh has not scored in the first quarter of any playoff game since January 15, 2017—their last postseason victory over Kansas City, where they still trailed 7-6 initially thanks to field goals.
Head coach Mike Tomlin's teams have struggled to start fast in high-stakes games. This year, Aaron Rodgers' veteran leadership—reminiscent of Ben Roethlisberger—an improved offensive line, and a cost-effective backup running back earning MVP-like impact offer hope. The defense has also elevated throughout the season.
However, the Texans' defense excels in pass rush, run defense, coverage, and tackling, punishing slow offenses far better than Baltimore. Houston rarely misses assignments and pressures quarterbacks relentlessly. Pittsburgh's offense ignited slowly last week via short routes to backs amid missed tackles—areas Houston dominates.
Pittsburgh holds home-field edge over a Texans team winless in road playoff games, playing in a dome regularly. Cold weather could hinder Houston, but an early deficit against their relentless unit might doom the Steelers, making a fast start imperative.
