The recently leaked Pittsburgh Steelers' 2024 schedule has revealed a daunting stretch run for the team, one that has been described as a "meat grinder" by experts. The Steelers will face all of their divisional rivals from Week 11 onwards, making for a challenging end to the season.

Two notable encounters stand out in the schedule. The Steelers will go on the road to face the Philadelphia Eagles, while they will also host the formidable Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day, which happens to fall on a Wednesday. These games will test the team's mettle during a busy and demanding time of the year.

Apart from these tough matchups, the Steelers will also have to navigate multiple games on short weeks, including a road game against the Baltimore Ravens on a Saturday, followed by the challenging clash against the Chiefs on Christmas. This packed schedule presents a significant challenge for Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin.

Adding to the difficulty, the Steelers will face a formidable lineup of quarterbacks in the final stretch. Colin Cowherd, commentator on the NFL schedule release episode of the Colin Cowherd Podcast, highlighted the tough competition that Tomlin's team will face, with matchups against Joe Burrow, Deshaun Watson, Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson, Patrick Mahomes, and Burrow once again.

The Steelers' final stretch of the season has caught the attention of many analysts, with Warren Sharp detailing just how tough the projected opponents are. Six out of the remaining games are against teams expected to achieve double-digit wins this season, indicating that the Steelers will need to bring their best if they hope to secure playoff berths.

While the tough stretch presents challenges, it also offers potential advantages. Steeler Depot's Matthew Marczi argues that the backloaded AFC North schedule could work in favor of offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. With time before facing divisional rivals, Smith can focus on resolving quarterback, wide receiver, and offensive line situations, allowing the offense to gel and mature.

Nevertheless, there is no denying that the pressure on Mike Tomlin is higher than ever, especially after the playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills. The Steelers organization has shown unwavering loyalty, and team owner Art Rooney II has acknowledged the less-than-ideal schedule. While the expectations for success remain high, it raises the question of whether Rooney would consider dismissing Tomlin if the demanding backend of the schedule proves detrimental in 2024.

As the offseason progresses and preparations intensify, Steelers fans and football enthusiasts alike will eagerly await the kickoff of the 2024 season, curious to see how the team adapts to the challenging schedule ahead.