The weather outside has been frightful, but the Steelers’ outlook has been even worse ever since Monday night’s Debacle in Cincinnati.
A team that not long ago was pondering the possibilities of eventually beating the Chiefs suddenly looks incapable of winning another game.
Ben Roethlisberger has become George Bailey without the guardian angel.
The Grinch has stolen the Steelers’ postseason promise and has yet to experience the last-minute change of heart that brings it back.
Rudolph’s nose is on the fritz and the sleigh is far enough off course that the final destination appears to be The Island of Misfit Toys much more than it does the Super Bowl.
Bah humbug, and then some.
But all is not yet lost, even if three consecutive games have been.
If Ebenezer Scrooge could come around just in time, why can’t the Steelers’ offense?
If Clark W. Griswold could eventually get that Christmas bonus, why shouldn’t a division championship be forthcoming after all?
If Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree was fixable _ good grief! _ so, too, are the Steelers.
Remember, all appeared lost for John McClane at Nakatomi Plaza, too.
Until it didn’t.
A little faith, a little hope and a little belief may yet be all that’s needed.
It’s either that or the dialing up of a leftover Christmas miracle.
Are you ready for some football?
The Steelers need to convert a few third downs more than they need a visit from three spirits right about now.
They need a critical stop on defense much more than a gift from Santa.
And they need to beat a playoff-caliber team to restore a collective confidence that has become oh so fra-gi-le, in English or Italian.
They’re capable of all of the above, and have been all along.
Remembering as much may yet make for a Happy New Year.
Thumbnail via Getty Images.