PITTSBURGH – In the Premier Madden League, narratives can define the week before a single snap is played. That is the case for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they prepare for a critical Week 9 matchup at home against the Indianapolis Colts. Despite riding a wave of momentum under new head coach DK LaFleur, the Steelers are being painted as underdogs in their own house.
The source of this chatter comes from “The Prediction Show,” a podcast where league coaches Drama of the Vikings, JC of the Bears, and Que of the Commanders regularly weigh in on upcoming matchups. During the Week 9 predictions, Drama and JC raised doubts about quarterback Desmond Ridder’s ability to deliver when it matters most. Drama claimed that Ridder “cannot get it done,” while JC echoed the sentiment, questioning whether Pittsburgh has the right man under center to take the next step and wondering why he is even there to begin with.
For LaFleur and his Steelers, those comments did not go unnoticed. But instead of fanning flames, they provided fuel. Pittsburgh is not a stranger to being doubted. In fact, the Steel City has always thrived on it. And if there is one thing Coach LaFleur has made clear in his short time at the helm, it is that he welcomes every ounce of skepticism. To him, doubt is not an insult, it is motivation.
The Ridder Narrative
Ridder’s story in Pittsburgh has been one of steady growth since LaFleur took over in Week 4. In his first four games under the new head coach, Ridder’s turnovers have dropped week by week. He threw three interceptions in his first start, then two, then one, and finally zero in Week 8’s electric performance against the Green Bay Packers. That steady decline is more than just a statistical note. It is a sign of progress, discipline, and a quarterback who is beginning to find comfort in his role.
Against the Packers, Ridder was sensational. He threw for 459 yards, four touchdowns, and posted a near-perfect passer rating. More importantly, he protected the football. To his head coach, that was the clearest sign yet of a player maturing. “Desmond is improving every week,” LaFleur said. “He is making better decisions, protecting the ball, and still pushing it downfield. That balance is what we want.”
Yet, the outside noise insists on doubt. For Drama and JC, one great game is not enough proof. They want to see Ridder string together wins against tough opponents. Week 9 against Indianapolis will be his chance to do exactly that.
The Challenge of the Colts
The Colts enter the matchup at 4-4 and have proven to be a resilient team under quarterback Anthony Richardson. His dual-threat ability presents unique challenges, forcing defenses to account for both his arm and his legs on every snap. The Steelers’ defense will need to stay disciplined, maintain containment, and avoid giving up big plays that could swing momentum.
For Pittsburgh, the formula remains the same. Offensively, Ridder must continue his steady improvement while leaning on his playmakers. DK Metcalf has been the dominant force in the receiving game, while Calvin Austin’s quickness provides balance. Rookie running back Nate Carter has been a revelation, offering versatility as both a rusher and pass-catcher. The offensive unit has shown it can put up points, but the question remains whether it can do so consistently against disciplined defenses.
Defensively, the Steelers know the standard. Big plays from T.J. Watt and the secondary have helped carry them, but giving up 48 points in Week 8 was a stark reminder that splash plays are not enough. The defense must tighten up, communicate better, and avoid letting Richardson extend drives with his legs, and they feel confident that they will do exactly that.
The Underdog Mentality
For LaFleur, being doubted is not new. In fact, it is exactly where he feels most comfortable. “This city has always embraced the underdog mentality,” he said earlier this week. “Respect is not given. It is earned. We hear the talk, and that is fine. We will answer on the field.” Those close to the team know LaFleur even relishes when people question his group. To him, nothing builds a stronger fire than being told you cannot succeed.
That mindset resonates with the locker room. Watt spoke candidly about the noise, saying, “We know what people are saying. But at the end of the day, it is about us. Let them doubt. We will show up and play our game.”
A Voice of Support
Not every coach joined in the chorus of criticism. On that same episode of “The Prediction Show,” Washington Commanders head coach Que publicly stated that he expects the Steelers to win. His vote of confidence served as a reminder that while the doubts are loud, there are also those around the league who see the progress LaFleur’s squad has made. For a team still carving out its identity under new leadership, that respect carries weight.
The Stakes of Week 9
At 4-3, the Steelers have an opportunity to climb further above .500 and solidify their place in the playoff picture. A win would not only quiet critics but also validate the steady improvements seen under LaFleur. A loss, however, would feed into the narrative that Ridder cannot carry the team when the spotlight shines bright.
For Steelers Nation, this is more than just another regular season game. It is a chance to prove that the progress is real, that Ridder is the answer, and that the underdog label belongs in the past.
The Colts may see Pittsburgh as vulnerable, and some coaches around the league may share that view. But in Acrisure Stadium, the Steelers are ready to prove otherwise. For LaFleur, there is nothing sweeter than being doubted. The noise has been heard. Now it is time to answer.
– Forged In Steel Times
