The Pittsburgh Steelers have kicked off the season with a bang, boasting a 3-0 record for the first time since 2020. Much of this early success can be attributed to their revitalized defensive strategies, which have proven to be game changers. This article analyzes the specifics of these strategies and how they have impacted the season so far including NFL odds.
Peter Diana / Pittsburgh Post Gazette
Steelers Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin goes over some notes with his players in practice.
The Core of the Defense: T.J. Watt & Beyond
T.J. Watt remains the foundation of the Steelers’ defense. With another sack added to his tally, Watt is just .5 sacks away from reaching the coveted 100-sack milestone in his career. His consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks has been instrumental in disrupting offensive plays and forcing turnovers.
However, the Steelers’ defensive prowess this season isn’t solely dependent on Watt. One particular standout is Cory Trice, who stepped in for Donte Jackson and made a vital interception in the end zone against the Denver Broncos in Week 2. Trice's ability to read the quarterback and make decisive plays has added more reliability to the secondary.
Key Additions: DeShon Elliott’s Impact
DeShon Elliott has arguably been one of the best offseason acquisitions for the Steelers. His performance against the Broncos highlighted his versatility; Elliott executed a significant run stop on third down to force a punt and maintained tight coverage throughout the game. His presence has solidified the defensive backfield, making it one of the toughest units to penetrate in the league.
Elliott’s impact is not just limited to his on-field performance. His experience and leadership qualities have been invaluable to the younger players, fostering a culture of discipline and accountability. This has contributed to a more cohesive and resilient defensive unit.
Statistical Dominance: A Deeper Look
The Steelers' defense has only allowed a mere 295 yards of offense over the first two games. On Sunday, they stifled one of the league's top offenses as well in the Los Angeles Chargers, holding them to just 10 points. These statistics are a testament to the effectiveness of their new defensive schemes, which emphasize aggressive pass rushing paired with tight coverage.
One of the defensive strategies that have stood out is their use of varied blitz packages. By frequently mixing up their blitzes, the Steelers have managed to keep opposing quarterbacks off-balance. This unpredictability has been a key factor in their ability to generate turnovers and limit offensive production.
Aaron Anastasia / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' OLB's TJ Watt and Nick Herbig making a play at the end of Week 3 in 2024.
The Penalty Problem
Despite the defensive brilliance, the Steelers have been plagued by penalties, which have often negated significant offensive gains. Broderick Jones, for instance, was flagged three times on a single drive, including two holding penalties that wiped out a spectacular 51-yard pass from Justin Fields to George Pickens.
Penalties have not only stymied the offense but have also put additional pressure on the defense to compensate for the lost yardage. This is an area that the Steelers will need to address urgently if they are to maintain their winning momentum.
Odds & the Journey Ahead
The early success of the Steelers has not gone unnoticed in betting circles. Current odds reflect their improved standing, with the team emerging as a strong contender in the AFC North. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, and the Steelers will need to maintain their defensive sharpness while ironing out offensive inconsistencies.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' safety DeShon Elliott (25) making a big play in his first game with Pittsburgh.
In conclusion, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ new defensive strategies have been the linchpin of their early-season success. With standout performances from players like T.J. Watt and DeShon Elliott, coupled with innovative defensive schemes, the Steelers have established themselves as a formidable force. However, to sustain this momentum, they must address their penalty issues and ensure that both sides of the ball perform consistently.
