The Steelers put together a solid 24-17 win at Cincinnati. It’s hard to argue with an offense that produced 278 yards passing, 167 yards rushing and possessed the ball an absurd 37:30.

But I will. 

The game was up for grabs going into the fourth quarter. That scenario has not been kind to the Steelers this season.

The Steelers have blown fourth-quarter leads in each of their three losses, surrendering a total of 40 fourth-quarter points en route. The defense stiffened yesterday. But is that the exception, or the new rule?

I know which way I’m betting.

For all the Steelers’ yardage and possession, they only scored 24 points. They kept getting three, not six. They left the result in doubt until late.

MORE POINTS FASTER. That should be the motto of the Steelers’ offense. Instead, they keep counting on a defense that can’t be counted on. The Steelers are relying on tradition to their own detriment.

But there were lots of bright spots. QB Ben Roethlisberger was 27/37 for 278 yards, one TD, one interception and a QB rating of 91.9 despite a fistful of drops. RB Jonathan Dwyer broke loose for 122 yards on 17 carries. The Steelers’ offensive line, led by Willie Colon, battled like crazy in the trenches.

The defense was barely on the field, but at least it didn’t suck. Ike Taylor held A.J. Green to one catch – but it was a touchdown. #swag #swurve

The Steelers won a game their way last night. Good.

But can they keep doing that enough to make the playoffs? #dink #dunk

Photo courtesy of Getty Images.