3 reasons for optimism in Steelers' Week 13 matchup vs. Bills

After dropping to 6-5 following the Week 12 loss to the Chicago Bears, there are many, including myself, who are ready to hit the panic button on the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2025 season, but a win over the Buffalo Bills this Sunday will more than reinstill some confidence — and a victory isn't as far-fetched as some may think.

From the Steelers' much-improved run defense to the Bills dealing with serious injuries on the offensive line, here are three reasons for optimism ahead of Pittsburgh's Week 13 matchup against Buffalo.

Steelers' run defense can handle Buffalo’s ground game

The once-concerning run defense in Pittsburgh has looked much improved over the latter half of the season, holding the Bears' No. 1 rushing attack to 99 yards, which they should be able to replicate against Buffalo's equally challenging ground game in Week 13.

Bills' offensive tackle woes

It's far from ideal to enter a tough matchup down a starter on the offensive line — but the Bills will be missing two, LT Dion Dawkins and RT Spencer Brown, against a Steelers defense averaging the fifth-most sacks in the league.

Returning Aaron Rodgers

There's no substitute for experience — and the Steelers found that out the hard way in last week's loss to the Bears. Luckily for Pittsburgh, Rodgers will play against Buffalo and will give the Steelers their best shot at defeating the Bills.

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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers' reasons for optimism vs. Bills in Week 13