How the fortunes of an NFL team change from week to week. Last week at this time we were talking about the Pittsburgh Steelers second loss of the 2011 season to the rival Baltimore Ravens, and the difficult challenge they faced to win the division having lost their first two divisional games. Fast forward one week and the Steelers have jumped from third place in the AFC North to back on top of the standings thanks to Baltimore’s road loss in Seattle.
Let’s see where the panel of ESPN writers ranked Pittsburgh following their 24-17 road win against a Bengals team that had previously won its past five games.
Pittsburgh Steelers: 7-3
Rank: 4
Last Week: 5
Analysis: Pittsburgh’s defense showed against Cincinnati that it still can close out games. (Walker)
The Bengals, meanwhile, were bumped down to No. 11 from No. 1, and the Ravens fells three spots to No. 6 for their puzzling loss to the Seahawks.
For more on the Steelers check out Behind The Steel Curtain.