The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a painful defeat in a 24-10 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, further complicating their already challenging season. The setback came at a high price, as they will be without their starting quarterback, Kenny Pickett, for at least Week 14's Thursday Night Football clash against the New England Patriots. Additionally, injuries to key veterans Isaac Seumalo and Elandon Roberts add to the Steelers' concerns down the stretch.

With a record of 7-5, the Steelers still hold the No. 5 seed for the AFC playoffs and possess a tiebreaker over the Cleveland Browns and Indianapolis Colts, albeit temporarily. Nevertheless, optimism is scarce in the Steel City following Sunday's loss.

Former NFL defensive back Kerry Rhodes expressed his belief that Pittsburgh's season is effectively over after their defeat. Speaking on Fox Sports Radio, Rhodes acknowledged his respect for head coach Mike Tomlin, but noted that the Steelers had been playing on thin ice throughout the year, and the consequences are now beginning to pile up.

"It is over for the Steelers. I never want to go against my boy Mike Tomlin as well," Rhodes stated on Monday. "They've been playing with fire so much this year and they've had some remarkable comeback wins in the fourth quarter and all those things. But it just won't equate to them actually making the playoffs this year."

Indeed, the Steelers' season has been marked by narrow victories and late-game heroics. Although their record reflects a 7-5 standing, injuries have taken a toll on the team. Despite relatively good health leading up to the Arizona matchup, injuries to Pickett, Roberts, and Seumalo have once again disrupted the team's stability. Moreover, star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is set to tough it out with a broken hand.

In Pickett's absence, the Steelers will turn to backup quarterback Mitch Trubisky. While Trubisky brings starting experience to the table, his overall performance has been inconsistent. Finding success in his last start for the Steelers against the Carolina Panthers last season, the team is hoping for a similar standout performance.

However, placing their playoff hopes squarely on Trubisky's shoulders is cause for concern. Trubisky has demonstrated a tendency to turn the ball over, making things difficult for the defense, as he has done earlier this season when filling in for an injured Pickett.

With five games remaining on their schedule, the Steelers still have a chance to turn things around and secure crucial victories. However, the path ahead looks tough for Pittsburgh, as they grapple with injuries and the uncertainty surrounding their quarterback situation. The coming weeks will test the resilience of the team as they strive to keep their playoff aspirations alive.