Playoff implications galore will be found on Sunday Night Football between the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers.

Both the Bills (9-3) and Steelers (11-1) are poised to make the postseason this year. Having said that, in what fashion is still very much up for grabs, making this an important game for both sides.

With such stakes on the line, let’s learn some more on Buffalo’s opponent now from the source. Bills Wire goes behind enemy lines with Steelers Wire managing editor, Curt Popejoy, right here:

We’re seeing a lot about how Ben Roethlisberger is playing different this season… explain that. How’s he looking different?

CP: With the struggles in the run game, Roethlisberger has really taken to a short, almost horizontal passing attack to try and make up for it. He’s having a great season but when he pairs the offense down too much, it limits what they can do.

What’s been wrong with the Steelers rushing attack?

CP: Honestly, I think it’s mostly to do with the offensive line at this point. They are tremendous in pass protection but have struggled to create seams for the backs. Then once the run game starts to falter, the coaches seem fairly content to just give up on it.

This defense gets a lot of turnovers and has for a while. If there’s only area you’d avoid if you were the Bills offense, what would it be?

CP: Throwing at safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. He’s such a smart player and teams have figured out if you test him, he’s going to make plays. It’s really the same for linebacker T.J. Watt. He’s known for his ability to pressure the quarterback but he’s another guy who goes after the football on every run play.

In terms of losing that undefeated record, did you see that coming vs. Washington? Or was it a total surprise?

CP: I don’t think Steelers fans were shocked at all. The team was pretty thin between injuries and the COVID-19 list and you could just see this team wearing down over the previous few weeks. All the drama with the Ravens game really took the wind out of their sails.

Who wins and why? What’s your prediction?

CP: Getting Conner and Pouncey back on offense is a huge help but being so shorthanded on defense, especially at linebacker is going to stretch the Steelers to their limits. If they cannot come out and establish themselves on possession downs, Josh Allen is going to have a field day against a secondary minus Joe Haden. This one will be physical and close but I’m leaning Steelers 28, Bills 24.