Now that the Steelers' playoff hopes have taken a huge hit — a really huge hit — perhaps it's time to look on the bright side.

Here's a top 10 list of why it's not the worst thing that can happen, that things could always improve next year.

10.

This year was not to be Pittsburgh's year anyway.With the Indianapolis Colts clicking at 12-0 and the surging San Diego Chargers at 9-3, those two appear to be having dream seasons.The Steelers would have ended up at Indianapolis and no lead is safe from Peyton Manning.

9.

The Steelers have done well for themselves the past few seasons.They've won two of the past four Super Bowls and had to battle some very stiff competition along the way.There's no sense being too greedy.

8.

Injuries have hurt.To his credit, coach Mike Tomlin hasn't used injuries as an excuse.However, with safety Troy Polamalu missing seven games so far, including all six losses, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger out one game and defensive end Aaron Smith gone for most of the season, that's hampered the team greatly.

7.

At least they've been in every game.All six losses have come down to the final drive in the closing seconds, and the team held five fourth-quarter leads in those six games.It could be worse. They could have been blown out in several games. The competitive factor shows they will most likely bounce back next year.

6.

As Andy Williams said, it's the holiday season.No need to waste valuable weekends watching the games. Get out there. Spend, spend, spend. Jump start the economy. Plus, there's more time to prepare your holiday meals and parties.

5.

Or, on the other hand, save money.No need to buy all that unnecessary postseason merchandise. Your tattered AFC North Division T-shirt can survive another year.

4.

The team can look forward to a higher draft pick.Remember, after other down seasons the Steelers drafted Roethlisberger with the 11th pick overall (in 2004) and traded up to 16th from 27th to draft Polamalu a year earlier.

3.

You could turn your allegiances to the Penguins a little sooner and watch Pitt in a bowl.The Penguins are among the best teams in the NHl again.. Plus, the Panthers are gearing up for the Meineke Car Care Bowl the day after Christmas.I hear Charlotte's lovely this time of year.

2.

Regale future generations with the tale of the 2009 Pittsburgh Steelers."Wait. Let me get this straight, Grandpa. You're telling me that the Steelers — the Pittsburgh Steelers! — lost to the Kansas City Chiefs

and the Oakland Raiders? In the same season!"

1.

Reintroduce yourself to your spouse and/or your kids. They've missed you.Sam Tallarico is a staff writer for the Butler Eagle.