Add it all up and what's the damage? If both teams get there, the Titans would host the AFC Championship game.

Any advantages? The Steelers have the option of two weeks of rest because next week's game is meaningless. And, maybe, this is one of those losses a team needs to bring the ego down a peg and focus toward the playoffs.

Thoughts on where this puts the Steelers on the jumpside...

So wipe the defensive monster slate clean:

• The Titans rushed for a combined 117 yards.
• Tennesee had 323 total yards.
• The offense doesn't look so "clutch" anymore: 4 turnovers to none is an awful recipe on the road.
• The offensive line made defensive tackle Jason Jones look like Albert Haynesworth. The rookie had 3 1/2 sacks and a fumble recovery.

So, tell us, Steelers Nation. What does this all mean?

My thoughts. Lemme Dennyify this -- the Steelers are what we thought they were. A very good defense with a very average, at best, offense.

They are a good team in a lump of good teams that includes Tennessee, Baltimore, New England, Indianapolis and Miami. I don't think the Steelers are heads and shoulders above any of these teams.

You want to argue that they are elite? Here's some non-elite parts of the Steelers repertoire:

• They need to take care of the ball. A lot of inopportune fumbles and picks.
• Lack the ability to pick up third and shorts and extend drives.
• Special teams. (And Reed has been good all year, but tying the game at 10-10 is a momentum-changing opportunity.)
• Offensive play calling. Long, slow developing draw plays against the Titans? Have you watched game film? Why don't you just kneel on the ball?

This doesn't mean the Steelers are done. It means they are flawed. Who else is flawed? The Titans, Ravens, Pats, Colts and Dolphins. 

Three weeks 'til tourney time, baby. 

Take a look around the league. There are a dozen teams still begging for a shot. That's what the Steelers have. And, one thing is certain, they'll have to be better than this.