
Steelers Defense Faces Uncharacteristic Struggles in Loss to Colts
The Steelers' defense encountered an unexpected challenge last Sunday against the Colts, and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin didn’t mince words about it. The game began with the Colts quickly putting up 17 points in their first three possessions, catching the Steelers off guard and ultimately leading to a 27-24 loss. What surprised Austin the most wasn’t the Colts' offense running at the Steelers' nickel defense with five defensive backs, but how uncharacteristically slow the Steelers were to start the game. Austin mentioned that the team had been starting games well in previous weeks, making this sluggish beginning all the more perplexing.
A significant curveball in the game came when veteran quarterback Joe Flacco stepped in for an injured Anthony Richardson during Indianapolis' second possession. Flacco’s more traditional pocket-passing style shifted the dynamic of the game compared to Richardson's running and RPO-based approach. Austin admitted it took time to adjust the play calls accordingly, as the two quarterbacks offer very different challenges.
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The Steelers' defense also suffered from communication issues, which led to two touchdown passes from Flacco—one to wide receiver Josh Downs in the first quarter and another to tight end Andrew Ogletree in the fourth. Austin acknowledged that these mistakes need to be fixed quickly, noting that "putting bad plays on tape" can haunt a defense if future opponents try to exploit the same weaknesses. While confident the defense can improve its communication, Austin didn’t promise there wouldn’t be any more blown coverages, stressing that continued effort and discipline are key.
T.J. Watt, a defensive standout, was notably held without a sack for the first time this season. Despite being constantly double-teamed and chipped, Austin wasn't surprised. He mentioned that elite pass-rushers like Watt face that level of attention every week, and sometimes the officials won’t call the holding penalties. While frustrating, Austin emphasized that Watt and the defense must find ways to fight through these challenges.
The game may have ended in a loss, but the Steelers’ defense knows what they need to address moving forward. Adjusting to changing offensive dynamics, improving communication, and keeping their pass rush effective, despite the constant holding, are key focuses as they prepare for their next matchup against the Cowboys.
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