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Youth movement fueling Pittsburgh turnaround

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison (92) and Stephon Tuitt (91) during second half of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2014. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison (92) and Stephon Tuitt (91) during second half of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2014. (AP Photo/Don Wright) Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison (92) and Stephon Tuitt (91) during second half of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2014. (AP Photo/Don Wright)

PITTSBURGH (AP) – The Pittsburgh Steelers are relying on a youth movement to guide them back to the playoffs.

Pittsburgh (10-5) is already in the postseason after a two-year absence. The Steelers will win the AFC North if they can beat Cincinnati (10-4-1) on Sunday night.

The Steelers have a growing number of young impact players, including 22-year-old running back Le’Veon Bell, 23-year-old wide receiver Martavis Bryant and 21-year-old defensive lineman Stephon Tuitt.

Linebacker Sean Spence says the tough losses the team endured early in the season is paying off now as the team’s young core has gained valuable experience.

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AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL