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Steelers cannot afford to overlook Chiefs

After Sunday's results, a win against the Chiefs on Monday night is necessary for the Steelers to keep pace with division foes.

Peter Aiken

In the NFL, every game is meaningful. A slip-up here or there can cost home-field advantage, a division title, or even a playoff berth. That is why tonight's game against the Chiefs is extremely important for the Steelers.

The Steelers enter the second half of their season starting with a crucial stretch of games. After the Chiefs, the Steelers play on Sunday night against Baltimore, at Cleveland, and then make a quick return trip to Baltimore. After these four games, the playoff picture might be much clearer. The Ravens, already a game up on Pittsburgh, looked dominant in a 55-20 win over the Oakland Raiders Sunday. The Cincinnati Bengals also dominated, with a 31-13 victory over the Giants at home.

But it's only the Chiefs, right? No worries, right? Well, the Steelers have a history of playing down to their opponents in recent years. Yes, the Chiefs are arguably the worst team in the NFL. Still, there are a few reasons why I think they will pose a threat. First, it's could be a dreaded "trap" game. With Baltimore looming next week, the Steelers cannot afford to look past the Chiefs. Second, rain is in the forecast and a slick field could lead to sloppy play. Sloppy play could benefit the Chiefs. Finally, there is one little arrival that could put a giant wrench in the Steelers gameplan. Baby Ben. If Little Ben decides he wants to arrive on Monday Night Football, Ben Roethlisberger will be there.

Yes, a lot has to happen for the Chiefs to hang with the Steelers. However, I think it will be closer than most people believe. The Steelers need to win this game. The rest of the season may hang in the balance.

Photographs by dizfunk used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.