The Steelers defense will face a formidable Falcons offense, led by veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. Though names like Kyle Pitts and Drake London will undoubtedly be on defensive coordinator Teryl Austin's radar, their greatest strength lies in their backfield.
The Steelers defense will have their work cut out for them as they set to face a potent Falcons offense led by veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. Though names such as Kyle Pitts and Drake London will likely be on defensive coordinator Teryl Austin's radar, their true strength is in their backfield.
The first name that comes to mind is Bijan Robinson. In his rookie season last year, Robinson finished with 1,463 total yards (976 rushing, 487 receiving) and eight total touchdowns. Beyond the number is his natural playmaking abilities with both his legs and his hands. Not to be overlooked is Tyler Allgeier, who registered a 1000-yard season in his rookie year. Despite being the team's second option last season, he managed to post 876 total yards (683 rushing, 193 receiving) and five total touchdowns. The two of them combined accounted for 61 percent of the team's total touchdowns last season.
Austin's unit's success in Week 1 will be determined by their ability to neutralize Robinson and Allegeier. Last season, the Steelers' defense ranked 19th in total running yards allowed (1,956) and 21st in rushing yards allowed per game (118.6).
Improving these numbers begins with their interior defensive line depth. With the emergence of DeMarvin Leal and Isaiahh Loudermilk during the preseason, the team has one of the strongest units up front, along with veteran Cameron Heyward, Larry Ogunjobi, and Keeanu Benton. In the middle, they should have plenty of physicality and athleticism with veteran linebacker Elandon Roberts and prized free agent signee Patrick Queen.
With a lengthy season ahead of them, the defense will need to continue to set the tone for the squad. They cannot ignore the Falcons' offensive capabilities or employ their greatest tools to neutralize a potentially explosive unit this season.
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