All signs point to Steelers.

All looks well — and many of the nation’s seasoned Steelers observers are positioning themselves for a comfortable final result. Jacksonville has followed a similar bizarre path this season, rising from the scrap heap with their vastly improved defense to win 10 games and the AFC South title, but were wholly unimpressive in a narrow escape from the clutches of Tyrod Taylor and the Bills last week in as unartistic a performance as we’ve endured in years.

The Jaguars will now be taken with the utmost seriousness by Steelers Nation. Our prime concern was the same problem Pittsburgh set themselves up for in the 2007 season — when Roethlisberger took Week 17 off, and with a 16-day idleness gap before the wild card, threw three picks and lost to David Garrard and the Jags as home dogs. Ben now has had 20 days between his last action and Sunday’s business. If the Steelers are “right” and ready to win at least one more for the late Dan Rooney, they’re more than capable.

One potential Steelers distraction would be the midweek observation from key RB Le’Veon Bell that he could be reluctant to accept the franchise tag from Pittsburgh for 2018. Running backs are as sensitive as any skill-player type, given the short longevity projections for so many, based on wear and tear. Wideout Antonio Brown (off torn calf muscle) participated in Saturday’s walk-through and, barring a setback, expect he’ll see game action.

Steelers, 26-17

VIKINGS (-5) over Saints (Under 46 ½): The seasonal Saints sweep of the Panthers was no surprise for those who have observed the league closely this season. Blessed with Drew Brees’ presence and a meaningful depth of skill people on offense, New Orleans exploited their advantage in weaponry before the home folks, though they had a difficult time putting the Panthers to bed after establishing a lengthy lead. Now they must travel a long way, against a side which has quickly established the dominant habit of stifling visitors who haven’t enjoyed the advantage of close observation of Minnesota’s clever defensive act twice a year. Coach Mike Zimmer has been operating out of a lesser media center, but those familiar with his stifling stop unit are well aware of what havoc it wreaks.

Under Zimmer, U.S. Bank Stadium has not been a nice place to visit for ambitious visitors, and you certainly wouldn’t want to live there. Only the Lions have escaped with a win. The likes of the Saints (in Week 1), Ravens and Rams all failed, which doesn’t bode well for New Orleans’ prospects in this repeat engagement — that, and the fact the Panthers were the only indisputably “good” outfit the Saints defeated on the road, all season.

Last summer, the Vikings may not have planned to have Case Keenum starting at quarterback this season — but given Saturday’s activation of QB Sam Bradford, it seems logical to assume Bradford (rather than Teddy Bridgewater) will be first to take over, should Keenum get sidelined.

Vikings, 23-16

Last week: Sides: 2-2 (Chiefs, L; Falcons, W; Bills, W; Saints, L). Over/Unders: 4-0.

Follow Richard Witt on Twitter: @rich_witt1