
Originally Posted by
Born2Steel
A QB that can get you to the playoffs regularly is the definition of franchise guy. Not taking away anything from the disappointing loss this year, but it's very tough to win in the playoffs as a rule. Getting to the playoffs is the goal every year for every team. When you have a QB that lets you expect playoffs every year you start to think you deserve the SB every 2-3 seasons. That just isn't realistic. Every single season is it's own unique series of events. Should the Steelers have beaten the Browns in this season's wildcard game? I totally believe YES. But you cannot spot any team 28 points in the 1st qtr, not even the Browns.
If Rudolph leads the Steelers to the playoffs 3 years in a row, regardless what happens once there, the expectation by the fanbase will be a 4th year in a row with SB or bust. That's just not reality. Not for any team.