Steelers' former archenemy is now the biggest key to the playoffs puzzle

Pittsburgh Steelers fans from around the world will be forced to utter three words they were taught to never speak. I'm talking about three words that go against their philosophies, traditions, and heart desires. Say them with me… Go Joe Flacco. That's right. The former evil archenemy of the Steelers is now one of the […]

Mauricio Rodriguez — Dallas Cowboys News Writer
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Pittsburgh Steelers

Pittsburgh Steelers fans from around the world will be forced to utter three words they were taught to never speak. I'm talking about three words that go against their philosophies, traditions, and heart desires.

Say them with me…

Go Joe Flacco.

That's right. The former evil archenemy of the Steelers is now one of the most important figures in the lone scenario in which Pittsburgh advances to the postseason. After years of savoring the sweetest of victories against Flacco and the most painful of defeats, it's time to root for the former Baltimore Ravens quarterback.

Why? He will be starting for the New York Jets on Sunday, a game the Steelers need the Jets to win. Mike White has been ruled out of the game with an injury (ribs).

As you probably know by now, the Steelers need some favors from around the AFC and a win of their own against the Cleveland Browns to advance into the playoffs. This is what they need from other teams:

  • New York Jets to beat the Miami Dolphins.
  • Buffalo Bills to beat the New England Patriots.

The Jets' loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 17 complicated things as they're now officially eliminated from the playoffs and won't be nearly as motivated against a Dolphins squad fighting to get into the tournament.

The good news for the Steelers is that the Dolphins will be starting Skylar Thompson instead of Tua Tagovailoa. That means it might all come down to Skylar Thompson vs. Joe Flacco.

That might not be great TV but considering the playoff implications for Pittsburgh it should be a dramatic Sunday for fans hoping for another unexpected trip to the postseason.

Featured image via Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

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