The Steelers looked listless on offense without DK Metcalf against the Browns, but Mike Tomlin believes they found something on Sunday. With Metcalf serving a two-game suspension, they had to try to get by without him. Perhaps they figured some things out along the way, which they can integrate now that he is back.

Tomlin talked about the growth that he saw in the Steelers’ offense without Metcalf yesterday. He talked about newer players like Adam Thielen stepping up and finding bigger roles. “That cohesion has probably been accelerated”, he said, via the Steelers’ website. He also noted players like Scotty Miller having opportunities to show their worth, as well. And the work by RBs Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell to fill the gap he also cited as pivotal to “bridging the gap”.

But it wasn’t just the players figuring out how to run the Steelers’ offense without DK Metcalf. Tomlin admitted that the coaching staff grew as well. “I think we all grow as strategists. I think as a collective, a coaching staff, when you’re faced with adversity, it’s important that you pivot”, he said.

Referring to the Steelers’ offensive struggles against the Browns without Metcalf, Tomlin said “There is an expiration date on adjustments, and certainly, we had to make some adjustments. We felt the effects of it in Cleveland”. But he is confident they showed significant growth. And the ability to build from it against the Ravens.

“Hopefully, returning [Metcalf] to the fold, we get the benefits of all the things that I’ve just discussed”, Tomlin added. “Our adaptability, the growth of individuals, the growth of continuity in new individuals, and you couple that with his presence, hopefully, we’re all continually collectively better”.

Against the Ravens, the Steelers, the Steelers spread the ball around on offense. Six different players saw at least five targets in DK Metcalf’s absence. Each of those six players also caught at least three passes and produced 30-plus yards. And Aaron Rodgers threw for 294 yards, the Steelers’ highest total of the year.

But part of the reason the Steelers struggled offensively without Metcalf more against the Browns than the Ravens is the simple fact that the Browns have a better defense. And the Texans have a better defense than the Browns, so they will have their hands full Monday night.

How much of a difference will Metcalf make in his return? Given the inconsistencies of the regular season, one cannot feel confident in making a prediction. And if the Texans want to, they can simply take him out of the game with Derek Stingley Jr. and some bracket coverage. That would force the Steelers’ offense to beat them with players like Adam Thielen, Kenneth Gainwell, and Pat Freiermuth.

But the Steelers now believe that they know how to win with such players. Rodgers certainly talked a lot about belief after they beat the Ravens and how that can fuel them going forward. They scored 26 points without Metcalf, so getting him back, they have to feel good about their potential.