Steelers' Tyler Matakevich Highlights What Makes Danny Smith Truly Great

The Pittsburgh Steelers have had nine blocked kicks/punts in two and a half years. For reference, two a season is typically pretty good. The Steelers' special teams has been on another level compared to the rest of the league, and it's time Special Teams Coordinator Danny Smith gets his credit. 

In Week 7 against the New York Jets, four Steelers players got their hands on a blocked field goal. It was a crucial moment and a momentum shift for the special teams unit. While the defense has been great and the offense is improving, special teams in 2024 has been an X factor.

Tyler Matakevich, who is familiar with Smith from his previous time in Pittsburgh and now playing under him again, knows firsthand what makes Smith exceptional. Matakevich recently joined the Steelers Nation Radio Drive to shed light on Smith’s coaching prowess. He emphasized how Smith’s attention to detail, energy, and relentless focus on fundamentals consistently put the Steelers in the best position to succeed in crucial special teams situations.

"He's special, man," Matakevich said. "He's been here for years. He changed my life, personally, so I owe that guy everything. I just think it's the way he coaches, the way he carries himself. He gets guys bought in. Guys care about it."

According to Matakevich, Smith’s ability to motivate players and keep them laser-focused, no matter their role, is a testament to his greatness. Special teams often fly under the radar, but in Pittsburgh, with Smith at the helm, they have become a game-changing unit.

Matakevich highlighted how Smith’s leadership has created a culture where special teams are not just a phase of the game, but a difference-maker that can turn the tide in any matchup.

"You see his passion and how much Danny Smith cares about it," Matakevich said. "You don't want to let that guy down. That's definitely the mentality. I know I've got that mentality every time I'm out there. That's the last thing I want to do is let my guy make the tackle just because I don't want to let him down."

Smith has played a key role in helping several journeymen carve out successful careers on special teams. Some players may struggle to break through at linebacker or safety, or they may find they simply excel in special teams roles, building dominant careers in that phase of the game. Matakevich is one such player who fits into this category.

While Matakevich is a capable linebacker, he’s made his name in the NFL as a special teams standout, flying around the field and making critical plays. His ability to impact games in this role has been invaluable. Another example is Miles Killebrew, who earned All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors for his special teams performance in the 2023 season.

Under Smith's guidance, players like Matakevich and Killebrew have thrived, turning special teams into a place where they can shine and make a ton of money in their NFL careers. Smith's knack for developing players in this often-overlooked phase has made him one of the most effective special teams coordinators in the league.

Steelers' Special Teams Unit Has Been Tremendous In 2024

The Steelers' special teams unit feels even more exceptional in the 2024 season. They’ve delivered in key moments, providing Pittsburgh with yet another edge. 

As the offense begins to find its rhythm and the defense continues to play at an elite level, the special teams have been thriving, helping the Steelers quietly emerge as a sneaky contender.

Steelers fans and the organization feel fortunate to have someone like Smith leading the charge. His unmatched energy and ability to bring out the best in his players have been crucial to the unit's success. Steeler Nation is eager to see this group continue making game-changing plays and dominating on special teams throughout the season.

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