6 Things to Know About The Pittsburgh Steelers

3. The Best Beard In Football Will Not Be Playing

Nov 17, 2014; Nashville, TN, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel (99) celebrates at the end of the game against the Tennessee Titans at LP Field. The Steelers defeated the Titans 27-24. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

If you are a fan of terrific beards, then you are probably familiar with Brett Keisel. The longtime anchor of the Steelers defensive line was placed on injured reserve after suffering a tricep injury a few weeks ago.

Though this has been far from from The Beard’s best season, he still managed to be part of 17 tackles, as well as recording a sack and an interception in 12 games.

Keisel is being replaced by Cam Thomas. That name should be familiar to the Chiefs, as this is his first year with Pittsburgh, after four years in San Diego.

In a supporting role this year (recording 18 tackles, half a sack and no interceptions), Thomas has posted similar stats to Keisel’s, but he hasn’t breached the box score over the last two games.

The game is unlikely to turn on the fact that a backup will start on the left end of Pittsburgh’s defensive line. Even so, I am hoping the change relieves some of the pressure on the much-maligned Chiefs offensive line.