Ben Roethlisberger downplays Steelers' struggles after back-to-back losses

After beginning the season 11-0, the Steelers have lost back-to-back games, causing many to wonder if Pittsburgh is a real contender in the AFC. Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger says that he still believes that they can make a deep postseason run and downplayed concerns about the team.

"This team is special," Roethlisberger told Joe Rutter of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. "The season is not over. I want everyone out there to just take a deep breath. I know it’s kind of crazy right now. I want everyone to take a deep breath. We’ve got time."

It makes sense that the veteran quarterback does not want to overreact to the team's recent struggles, but that the Steelers certainly find themselves in a tricky situation. For most of the season, Pittsburgh had the inside track to getting the No. 1 seed in the AFC, which would earn the team a bye during wild-card weekend. 

Losing to the Washington Football Team and Buffalo Bills has caused the Steelers to fall behind the 12-1 Chiefs in the standings and would force Pittsburgh to win three playoff games in order to reach the Super Bowl. 

The Steelers were able to dominate opponents early in the season with a stifling defense, but injuries to several key players, most notably Bud Dupree, have allowed opposing offenses to have more success against Pittsburgh. While Roethlisberger has managed to lead an above-average offensive attack, there are clear vulnerabilities, including a lackluster running game, wide receiver drops and age appearing to catch up with Big Ben.