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Pat Kirwan sticking with his prediction of Steelers playing in AFC Championship game

Veteran CBS Sports writer Pat Kirwan is sticking true to his June prediction of seeing the Steelers in the AFC title game.

By Neal Coolong
Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sport

Earlier this year, CBS Sports NFL writer Pat Kirwan predicted the Steelers would play in the AFC Championship game.

He's sticking with that prediction now, after having spent some time with the team at training camp.

"In June, I said the Steelers were my pick to go to the AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos, most likely as a wild card team," Kirwan wrote. "After visiting with them and watching the work they put in and the attitude, I will stick with my prediction."

Granted, he has them losing to the Broncos in Denver, it's still exciting to read.

Like many have been, Kirwan notes a strong impression of rookie running back Le'Veon Bell, but more than anything, the attitude and toughness coming from camp is the reason he's sticking with his prediction.

In an AFC that's very much wide open, predictions can range from 7-9 with a cleansing of all management within the Steelers organization, to 12-4 with a week off before a home playoff game.

If nothing else, the Steelers are preparing to play physical football. There are good teams in the AFC and within the AFC North, and like most years, health will play a vital role in all of this.

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