In a surprising turn of events, Pittsburgh Steelers' safety DeShon Elliott is set to take the field against the Bengals, despite initial concerns. But here's the twist: Elliott's presence wasn't even guaranteed until the last minute!
Elliott, who didn't travel with the team due to personal reasons, has made it to Cincinnati and is expected to start in the Thursday Night showdown. This update comes directly from the Steelers' senior director of communications, Burt Lauten, who confirmed Elliott's availability.
The Steelers' defense has been thriving with Elliott's return from a knee injury in Week 4. His impact was evident in the last two games, where he racked up an impressive 18 tackles, an interception, and a sack. And this is where it gets intriguing: Elliott's performance in Week 1 against the Jets was cut short due to the same injury, leaving fans wondering what could've been.
With Elliott in the lineup, the Steelers' defense is at full strength for the second consecutive week. Although special teams ace Miles Killebrew and WR Calvin Austin III are sidelined, the defense is ready to dominate. Last week's performance against the Browns, which included six sacks and numerous dropped interceptions, showcased their potential.
Elliott's ability to cover the entire field and make crucial plays will be pivotal in pressuring Bengals' quarterback Joe Flacco. His stellar performance last season earned him a contract extension, solidifying his status as one of the league's top safeties.
A victory tonight would give the Steelers a commanding 3.5-game lead in the AFC North. And this is the part most people miss: Elliott's presence significantly increases the team's chances of success.
But will the Steelers live up to the expectations? Can they secure the win with Elliott's help? The stage is set for a thrilling Thursday Night clash. What do you think the outcome will be? Share your predictions in the comments!
