Stop Overlooking Steelers and Vikings as True Super Bowl Contenders! Plus, Kansas City’s New Concern
As the NFL regular season approaches its midway point, the contenders for the Super Bowl are starting to emerge. The usual suspects like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Philadelphia Eagles remain atop the power rankings. However, two teams that have been flying under the radar are the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings.
Steelers’ Resurgence Under Mike Tomlin
After a disappointing 9-8 season in 2022, many had written off the Steelers as a playoff contender. However, under the leadership of veteran head coach Mike Tomlin, the Steelers have rebounded in a big way.
Quarterback Kenny Pickett has shown significant improvement in his second season, leading the Steelers to a 5-2 record. The defense, led by reigning Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt, has been dominant, allowing only 18.1 points per game.
The Steelers’ offense has also been clicking, with running back Najee Harris averaging over 100 yards per game. The addition of wide receiver George Pickens has given Pickett a reliable target downfield.
Vikings’ Surprising Start
The Vikings entered the 2023 season with low expectations, but they have defied all odds with a 6-1 record. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has been playing the best football of his career, throwing for over 2,000 yards and 15 touchdowns.
The Vikings’ defense has been equally impressive, led by cornerback Patrick Peterson and safety Harrison Smith. The team has allowed only 15.9 points per game, the second-lowest mark in the NFL.
The Vikings’ offense has been balanced, with running back Dalvin Cook and wide receiver Justin Jefferson both making significant contributions. Jefferson is on pace for another 1,000-yard season, while Cook has rushed for over 500 yards.
Kansas City’s New Concern
While the Chiefs remain the favorites to win the Super Bowl, they have a new concern that could derail their season. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been dealing with a nagging ankle injury that has limited his mobility.
Mahomes aggravated the injury in the Chiefs’ Week 7 loss to the Tennessee Titans. The injury has clearly affected Mahomes’ play, as he has struggled to run and extend plays.
The Chiefs’ offense has been less productive with Mahomes playing through injury. The team has averaged only 23.4 points per game in their last three contests, compared to 32.9 points per game in their first four games.
Conclusion
The Steelers and Vikings have emerged as legitimate Super Bowl contenders this season. Both teams have shown significant improvement on both sides of the ball and have established themselves as threats in their respective conferences.
While the Chiefs remain the favorites, their quarterback’s injury could become a major problem if it persists. The Steelers and Vikings are well-positioned to capitalize on any slip-ups from the Chiefs and challenge for the Lombardi Trophy.