Analyzing the Steelers’ Defense
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defensive team is currently ranked eighth in the NFL and has been able to remain solid throughout the season. The team has strong players like Patrick Queen, T.J. Watt, and Beanie Bishop Jr. who have contributed greatly to the Steel City’s successful performances. However, the defense as a whole needs to step it up even more, as the offense’s struggle appears to be increasing. For example, during last night’s disappointing loss against the Browns, the team struggled to score touchdowns, and last week against the Ravens, kicker Chris Boswell scored every point because the offense couldn’t find the end zone.
This struggle of the offense is perhaps the primary reason why the defense has been so important for the Pittsburgh Steelers this season. They have proven themselves to be pivotal in maintaining the team’s record, and throughout the past 12 weeks, the defense has racked up 25 sacks and allowed an average of just 16.9 points per game. They also have been able to maintain a third-down conversion rate of 43.9% and have a pass-rush grade of 90.3, which is the first-best in the NFL. Though there is always room for improvement, the defense has been stellar at shutting down pivotal plays, and their statistics clearly reflect their capabilities.
These impressive statistics would not be possible without the efforts of the individual players who contribute their best efforts each week. Most notable is veteran T.J. Watt, who was recently ranked the eighth-best defensive player in the league and has the skills to prove it. Watt is currently in his eighth year with the Steel City and continues to establish himself as a strong leader among the defensive team, racking up a total of seven and a half sacks this year. Patrick Queen is another standout defensive player, and leads the team with the most tackles, at 79. Rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr. has also proven his worth by consistently reading plays and picking off passes, contributing to the Steelers’ interceptions. Ultimately, the defensive team is widely considered the Pittsburgh Steelers’ key to success this season, especially considering some of the offense’s struggle to find the end zone.
