PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in familiar territory as they showcase a strong defense and a run-heavy offense, all while navigating uncertainties at the quarterback position.
Reflecting on their past, the Steelers echo a sentiment from 50 years ago when the original “Steel Curtain” defense was led by Joe Greene. Franco Harris and Rocky Bleier established a formidable backfield while rookie wide receivers Lynn Swann and John Stallworth emerged as vital targets in the passing game.
However, challenges persisted. Despite a solid 4-1-1 start under head coach Chuck Noll, the quarterback situation was in flux. Joe Gilliam, who began the season as a starter due to Terry Bradshaw’s injury, struggled with just four touchdown passes versus eight interceptions, prompting Noll to eventually revert back to Bradshaw and explore options with third-stringer Terry Hanratty.
The instability at quarterback created tension within the team, exemplified by Greene’s frustration after a loss that nearly led him to quit before being convinced to stay by wide receivers coach Lionel Taylor. Ultimately, Bradshaw found his stride, leading the Steelers to their first Super Bowl victory.
During a recent 50th-anniversary celebration of the 1974 team, Swann reflected on the journey to success, emphasizing the commitment players maintained regardless of who was under center. “As players, we knew we just had to do our jobs for whoever the quarterback was,” Swann shared.
Inside linebacker Patrick Queen echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in both Russell Wilson and backup Justin Fields. “We have got a lot of faith in both of those guys,” he said. “We know whoever we have back there, they’re going to give us a chance to win.”
Wilson’s first regular-season game in ten months was notable, as he completed 16 of 29 passes for 264 yards, throwing for two touchdowns and adding a rushing score. His performance, along with strong contributions from receiver George Pickens and running back Najee Harris, propelled the Steelers to a decisive 37-15 victory over the New York Jets, bringing their record to 5-2.
Winning has a way of alleviating concerns, a reality Wilson acknowledged. “We’re having fun playing ball,” he said.
A crucial aspect of the Steelers’ success has been their developing “block culture” under Tomlin, as demonstrated by their consistent blocking of kicks. Defensive tackle Dean Lowry’s deflection of a field-goal attempt by the Jets was instrumental in keeping their lead intact.
However, the Steelers face challenges with slow starts, having scored only one touchdown in the first quarter across seven games. This trend could pose problems against stronger teams later in the season.
Rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop’s rise has been notable, as he stepped up in place of the suspended Cam Sutton, recording two interceptions that contributed to touchdowns during the Jets game. Conversely, Tomlin’s cautious approach with the quarterback situation faced criticism, though it’s clear he aims to elevate the offense’s performance as they compete in the AFC.
Injuries were a concern, with defensive tackle Montravius Adams and cornerback Donte Jackson both suffering injuries during the game.
Defensive tackle Cam Heyward now shares the franchise record for games played by a defensive player, with 201 games, tying Hall of Famer Donnie Shell.
Next, the Steelers will aim to continue their momentum as they prepare to face the struggling New York Giants on “Monday Night Football.”