After witnessing a heartbreaking Steelers loss on Thursday Night Football, it may be difficult for Steel City fans to look at the silver lining. While the 3-8 Cleveland Browns were the better team in Week 12, there are several positive aspects of the game that can help fans process Pittsburgh’s loss. Here are 5 reasons for optimism after the Steelers loss in Week 12.

Steelers kept it competitive despite weather being a big factor:

Similar to what WR George Pickens said after the Week 12 loss, the adverse weather conditions did more to beat Pittsburgh than the Browns.

Russell Wilson had an elite performance:

Russell Wilson threw for 270 passing yards, a 75.0 completion percentage, one passing TD and an overall QBR of 116.7 in what was perhaps the best performance by any Steelers offensive player in Week 12.

Calvin Austin III could not be denied:

The deep threat that Calvin Austin presented in Week 12 was undeniably great, and his connection with Wilson should excite fans going forward.

The Steelers’ short week played a big role:

The fact that they had less than three days to prepare for Cleveland likely played a big role in the loss, and the Steelers will be fully refreshed for their next meeting in Week 14.

Baltimore also fell victim to the same trap game:

While it’s hardly a consolation, fans of the Black and Gold should find some peace knowing that the Baltimore Ravens, just one game back of the Steelers in the AFC North division race, gave the Browns their second win in Week 8.

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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: 5 reasons for optimism after Steelers’ Week 12 loss to Browns