Behind the Steel Curtain
After their fourth loss in six games, frustration is beginning to set in for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ faithful.
The black and gold dropped Sunday’s contest to Chicago, despite several chances to claim victory. The losing effort also means Pittsburgh loses control of the AFC North, as Baltimore now holds the tiebreaker, sitting at 6-5 as well.
While the Steelers still control their own destiny, the loss on Sunday was one of devastating proportions, leaving former Pittsburgh players no choice but to voice their thoughts.
Ex-Steelers James Harrison and Joe Haden took to their podcast, Deebo and Joe, to share their opinions on the club falling to 6-5. Harrison gave his reaction to a poor defensive effort, leaving no room for confusion with his irate response.
“Defense, [chuckles] soft,” said Harrison. “I’m tired of seeing the offensive lineman pushing our d-line two, three yards deep. We’re undisciplined, or poorly coached, or both. We have a horrible defensive scheme; it’s trash, it’s garbage. We can’t adjust at halftime; it’s nonexistent, or we’re just being out-coached, or both.”
Despite playing for Mike Tomlin throughout his career, Harrison was not shy to drop his criticism of the poor coaching thus far. Whether the Steelers legend was referring to Tomlin or defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, the message was clear: it is not good enough.
On Sunday, Pittsburgh’s defense allowed 30 points or more for the fifth time this season. While they appeared to be turning a new leaf with Kyle Dugger and Jalen Ramsey working well together, things crumbled down once again in the loss.
Part of their downfall could be attributed to playing the knowledgeable, offensive-minded head coach, Ben Johnson. Regardless, allowing 30 points this often can only take the team so far.
In Week 13, the Steelers will meet one of the best offenses in the NFL, the Buffalo Bills. Running back James Cook has had an elite season, ranking among the top in several RB statistics. Quarterback Josh Allen has had his fair share of turmoil; however, he remains last year’s MVP and a lethal weapon that can strike at any moment.
If the Steelers hope to keep their record above .500, the defense must devise a more effective scheme to confuse a potent offense. Bills-Steelers kicks off at 4:25 p.m. EST from Acrisure Stadium, Sunday, November 30.
