NFL Week 9 Recap: Steelers Defensive Adjustments Spark Win
Warren Sharp analyzes how the Steelers' defensive strategy led to their victory over the Colts in Week 9.
Steeler's Defensive Changes Against the Colts
The Steelers faced a challenging offense similar to the Green Bay Packers, who had exploited Pittsburgh’s high blitz rate in Week 8. In response, Pittsburgh, known as the NFL’s third most blitz-heavy team, drastically reduced their blitz rate from 46% in Week 8—the highest of the season—to 24% against the Colts, their lowest rate that year.
Schematic Adjustments Made by Pittsburgh
- The team increased their use of Cover 2 defense to the highest rate of the season.
- They simultaneously deployed their second-lowest rate of man coverage.
This innovative and less predictable approach disrupted the Colts' passing attack.
Run Defense Performance
The Steelers delivered their strongest run defense of the season against the NFL’s top-ranked rushing offense, the Colts. Before this game, the Colts held the #1 rank in rushing, while Pittsburgh’s defense was ranked 16th. Notably, the Steelers had previously faced only rushing offenses ranked 18th or lower over six consecutive games before meeting the Colts.
Pittsburgh's defensive creativity and unpredictability unsettled the Colts' passing game and led to a key victory.
Author's summary: The Steelers’ strategic cutback on blitzing combined with a creative defensive scheme effectively stifled the Colts’ offense, securing a crucial win in Week 9.