Chris Carter of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, hosts the Locked on Steelers podcast, and is joined by Alan Saunders of SteelersNow.com.

The Pittsburgh Steelers saw Kenny Pickett and Pat Freiermuth connect for several big plays against the Cincinnati Bengals. Is that the key to unlock the offense? Maybe not entirely, but it's a step in the right direction. Chris Carter and Alan Saunders discuss whether or not the Steelers' offense is closer to figuring out how to be a consistently productive unit, or if they're on a merry-go-round of mediocrity.

Also, it's time for the week 12 Stars and Skulls grades for the Locked on Steelers podcast. T.J. Watt, Pat Freiermuth and Najee Harris are among the top-graded players, but who's the unsung hero of the offensive line that also deserves high praise? Also, how costly has Diontae Johnson's mistakes been? And is Keeanu Benton ready to be the next force on the defensive line next to Cam Heyward?

CALL INTO THE SHOW AT 412-223-6644 or if international, e-mail your audio message to LOSTEELERSTOPICBAG@GMAIL.COM

Follow Chris Carter on Twitter: @CarterCritiques.

Theme music is 'Soul Kick' by Ceddy P, and 'Too Easy' by Nerdboy. Both from their label Renaissance Music. Find more from their label here.

This show is part of the Locked on Podcast Network.

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