Good Friday to you Steelers fans.
The Pittsburgh Steelers did several things defensively last week that were pretty big improvements in my book. Let’s start with tackling. It was more sound than I’ve seen it in a long time. Yes, there were some big hits but for the most part I saw guys break down and make tackles. We also saw a significant change in coverages. Rather than pitting LBs on WRs because of how they were aligned (think Vince Williams on Keenan Allen), they instead matched based on ability which has long been needed. Lastly, was the ability of Minkah Fitzpatrick to truly freelance and play center field. Last season, he spent so much time being a linebacker because the front seven couldn’t stop the run, that he rarely got the opportunity to truly play his position. Granted, the Steelers still gave up over 100 yards rushing Sunday but it was a much steadier performance. I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention Devin Bush. Since returning from his ACL injury, he’s looked pedestrian and even bad at times. He was a serious factor on Sunday. Let’s hope it continues.
The Podcast
Another great episode of the SCB Steelers Podcast presented by DEK Roofing Inc last night. We discussed the offense, defense, specific moments, performances and much more from Cincinnati and we looked ahead of the home opener against the New England Patriots.
Tweet of the Day… Fries and cole slaw on the side???? That’s ridiculous!
I would tackle anyone who orders fries & slaw on the side. https://t.co/ZbNvL060ai
— TJ Watt (@_TJWatt) September 16, 2022
Around the North This Week
The Cleveland Browns have a real chance to get to 2-0 on the young season as the New York Jets come into First Energy Field. After scraping by Carolina, the Browns shouldn’t have too many issues getting past Joe Flacco-led New York… The Ravens host Miami and I won’t be a bit surprised to see Tua Tagovailoa struggle. Mike McDonald is an excellent Defensive Coordinator who has learned from some of the best. I see Baltimore getting to 2-0 this week as well… Cincinnati heads to Big D where the Cowboys are without Dak Prescott for quite awhile. Cooper Rush gets the start there and I have to believe the Bengals bounce back big time despite being on the road. Their performance against us cannot be sitting well with them.
PHIII
Nobody punted more last week than did Pressley Harvin III. His eight punts in week one were a league high and quite frankly that’s not something to be proud of. What it means of course is that your offense stinks. To his credit however, Harvin has regained the consistency in both hang time and distance that got him selected by the Steelers in the first place. There are still things to work on but I’m hopeful he continues to build on things from here. Actually, what I hope is that he never has to punt again!
FOCO
We’ve got some awesome new stuff from our friends at FOCO! Check out the latest Hoodeez, as well as new FOCO Sweatshirts, Jackets, Leggings, Joggers, and MORE for MLB, NFL, and even NCAA.
Our Online Store
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