Steelers 24, Panthers 16: Analysis Of Team's Victory Over Carolina

PITTSBURGH, PA — Sunday's 24-16 victory over the Carolina Panthers improved their record to 6-8, but they remain in last place in the AFC North and their playoff chances remain virtually nonexistent. The currently have the 14th pick in the first round of April's NFL Draft.

Here's what sportswriters across the country thought about yesterday's game:

• John Breech, CBS Sports: "The Steelers' defensive game plan here was to shut down the run and make Sam Darnold beat them, and that game plan worked like a charm. The defense limited the Panthers to just 21 yards on the ground and that opened the door for T.J. Watt and friends to tee off on Darnold."

• Eric Edholm, NFL.com: "Pittsburgh's AFC North title dreams are toast, but a wild-card appearance remains a faint hope at 6-8 following a workmanlike road win at Carolina. That was encapsulated in the Steelers' back-breaking 21-play drive to open the second half, which drained most of the third quarter by itself. Pittsburgh traveled 91 yards and increased the lead to 21-7."

• Liam McKeone, The Big Lead: "The Steelers were beating the Panthers 21-7 and had just forced a fourth down after sacking Darnold twice. It was supposed to be fourth and 27. Instead, Carolina was gifted a free first down because Steelers linebacker/special teamer Marcus Allen decided it would be funny to join Panthers' huddle.The refs did not find it amusing and flagged him 15 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct, which is an automatic first down."

• Brooke Pryor, ESPN: "A popular scapegoat for the Steelers' early offensive struggles, offensive coordinator Matt Canada has quietly overseen a solid improvement from his unit since the bye week...Overall, the offense has found a rhythm after a slow start -- and perhaps that could keep Canada as the Steelers' OC for a third season."

• Noah Strackbein, Sports Illustrated: "By no means should the Pittsburgh Steelers start a quarterback controversy, and by no means should they hurt the confidence of Kenny Pickett, but they should consider starting Mitch Trubisky for another week. With the playoffs looming and each game carrying the weightof the season, the Steelers don't have time to mess around. Right now, each week is about winning, and that could mean not taking a risk on a rookie in Week 16."