After a week of anticipations, the Steelers managed to both reach and not reach the expectations of the Steelers.

Through the week, many expressed how the Steelers needed to shake the the stigma that they play down to their competition. I myself had believed that the Steelers would put an end to that motion only to be proven wrong.

The Steelers, now 2-1, were projected to have one of the highest chances to win the Superbowl. After two weeks of underplaying according to the talent and projections, they were still able to pick up victories. The Chicago Bears certainly did not let the Steelers get away with their lethargic start to the season this past Sunday.

The game was played in a lazy manner by both teams including the muffed punt return by Eli Rogers and the atrocious turnover by the Bears’ special teams at the end of the first half.

There were many excuses that were made, but the Steelers will need to find answers fast. The offense continues to struggle heavily on third downs at 32.4 percent. The resurgence of Bell will definitely help but it will be the future play of Ben Roethlisberger. He has averaged 6.7 yards per pass attempt which does not match up with the projections for putting up 30 point games consistently for an offense that supposedly has the best talent in the league.

While some believe that the pregame anthem story line affected the game itself among the players, it will be interesting to see how the Steelers will address what seems to be an issue that may have to get worked out within the team for next week’s game.

The Steelers players will have to answer questions as to their decision to stay in the tunnel for the anthem whether they like it or not. All teams around the league will now have to deal with this as the season progresses.

Preseason projected record: 13-3.

Post Week 1 projected record: 13-3.

Post Week 2 projected record: 13-3.

Post Week 3 projected record: 12-4.