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Same recent issues for Pittsburgh Steelers defense

By Russell S. Baxter

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 22: Nick Chubb #24 of the Cleveland Browns rushes during the first quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at FirstEnergy Stadium on September 22, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 22: Nick Chubb #24 of the Cleveland Browns rushes during the first quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at FirstEnergy Stadium on September 22, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) /
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A year ago, no team in the league allowed more yards on the ground than the Black and Gold. And things haven’t gotten better for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

There’s no doubt that any team would struggle if they lost the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year. That’s what the Pittsburgh Steelers have been dealing with for a smidge over two games. Outside linebacker T.J. Watt suffered a torn pectoral muscle in the fourth quarter of what would be a 23-20 overtime win at Cincinnati in Week 1.

But in that victory, the Steelers defense allowed 133 yards on the ground. A week later in a frustrating 17-14 home loss to the New England Patriots, Bill Belichick’s club burned coordinator Teryl Austin’s unit for 124 yards rushing.

Pittsburgh Steelers get trounced on Thursday Night Football

And on Thursday night at Cleveland, the Browns came away with a 29-17 victory. And the Cleveland offense had its way with Pittsburgh defenders. Led by powerful Nick Chubb – who finished the evening with 23 carries for 113 yards and one touchdown – Cleveland rolled up 171 yards rushing on Mike Tomlin’s club.

This was an offseason where the franchise promoted Austin to defensive coordinator and hired former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores as a defensive assistant. At inside linebacker, the team added former Jaguars standout Myles Jack and were hoping Devin Bush could return to his rookie form of 2019. Tyson Alualu returned after missing most of 2021. But the inability to slow down the run remains an issue for a club that allowed the most rushing yards in the league last season.

So much has been made about the Steelers’ offense. Tomlin, quarterback Mitch Trubisky, coordinator Matt Canada and the offensive line have been the subject of heavy criticism. But with or without Watt, Pittsburgh defenders are getting pushed around far too often. And even if the team is able to play better offensively, the Steelers may not get as many opportunities as needed if the defense can’t get off the field.

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