If you’re still standing in your NFL survivor pool, major props to you—the last few weeks were brutal. Upsets by the Packers and Jets, plus that Giants-Commanders tie, absolutely cleared the room. Now that we’ve hit Week 6, the tension is highkey rising with some spicy rivalry matchups on deck.
The Steelers Situation
If you were thinking about locking in the 3-2 Pittsburgh Steelers against the one-win Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the SportsLine Projection Model says: hold that thought. The model, which has been on a serious heater with a 57-46 run on top-rated picks since 2024, isn’t feeling the vibes in Tampa this Sunday.
Even though the Steelers are currently 2.5-point favorites, they’re only averaging a lackluster 13.5 points on the road. The model sees them winning just 52% of the time, which is way too risky for a knockout pool. Plus, with the Bucs coming off a mini-bye and starting Jalon Daniels, this game has all the makings of a trap.
The Better Move
So, who should you actually back? The model is fading Pittsburgh and instead has identified a team that many players haven't used yet. This mystery squad is projected to win outright in over 80% of simulations. It’s definitely giving main character energy for your bracket this weekend.
Why it matters
Survivor pools are unforgiving, and one wrong move sends you to the sidelines. By avoiding the Steelers and pivoting to the model’s high-confidence pick, you’re playing the numbers game to keep your season alive.
