Who is the Steelers’ X-Factor in Week 11 vs. the Jacksonville Jaguars?

The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 11. It is the Steelers’ latest road game after a home game in Week 10, and hopefully their tenth win of the 2020 regular season.

When looking at the matchup between AFC foes, there are players who can be viewed as ‘X-Factors’.

What is an ‘X-Factor’?

I would describe an ‘X-Factor’ as a player who can truly alter the outcome of the game, single-handedly. Not just a plug and play type player, but a player who always has to be accounted for, no matter what.

As a clear-cut example of what an ‘X-Factor’ player would look like, think Troy Polamalu. Polamalu’s skill set made him a force to be reckoned with on every play. So, who are the ‘X-Factors’ for the Steelers Week 11 game vs. Jacksonville?

Let’s take a look...

Jeff Hartman

X-Factor: T.J. Watt

Why: Watt is someone who is an X-Factor every time he steps on the field, but let’s be honest, we haven’t seen the best from Trent Jordan Watt yet. We, as fans, have not witnessed him have a game where he completely takes over. A game where he records 3, o more, sacks.

This game in Week 11 could be the game, and Jake Luton might be seeing a lot of this on Sunday:

The one thing Watt has proven throughout his career in the NFL is he doesn’t have to register sacks to be a game changer. His ability to force fumbles, defend passes at the line of scrimmage, intercept passes and be stingy in the run game make him the monster he has become.

I expect Watt to have a game to remember, and help the Steelers win their 10th game of the season and remain perfect throughout the 2020 regular season.

Dave Schofield

X-Factor: JuJu Smith-Schuster

Why: There’s no secret that the Jacksonville Jaguars are struggling during the 2020 season. Losing eight straight games, they have surrendered at least 24 points in their eight losses with six of those games where they surrendered 30 points or more. Adding significant injuries at cornerback and the placement of 2020 top 10 draft pick C.J. Henderson on the Reserve/Injured List, look for the Steelers to exploit what could be a very weak secondary of the Jaguars. What is the best way to do this? Get the ball to the one guy that the team is going to try to stop. Not only will it be good for Smith-Schuster to get going early, but drawing more attention will also help open up things for his fellow receivers. Plus, it’s his 24th birthday so why not?

Who would be your X-Factor for the Week 11 game in Jacksonville? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!