PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers showcased a strong defense and a heavy reliance on their running game as they began the season with renewed optimism, albeit with some uncertainty at the quarterback position.
The team has experienced a similar situation before, although head coach Mike Tomlin and quarterback Russell Wilson have not. Fifty years ago, the Steelers’ legendary “Steel Curtain” defense, led by Joe Greene, was in its prime. Franco Harris and Rocky Bleier formed a potent backfield duo, while rookie wide receivers Lynn Swann and John Stallworth added depth to the passing game. However, despite a decent 4-1-1 record in the first six weeks, something felt amiss. Coach Chuck Noll had to navigate a quarterback conundrum when Joe Gilliam, who initially filled in for the injured Terry Bradshaw, struggled, prompting Noll to reassess his options.
The quarterback instability could have fractured the team, but the players remained focused. Swann reflected on that challenging season during a recent celebration of the 1974 team, stating that they were committed to supporting whichever quarterback was on the field, including Gilliam, Bradshaw, or third-stringer Terry Hanratty. Ultimately, Bradshaw found his stride, leading the Steelers to their first Super Bowl championship.
Fast forward to the present, after a convincing 37-15 victory over the New York Jets that improved the Steelers’ record to 5-2, Wilson’s impressive performance in his first regular-season game in 10 months provided a glimpse of the team’s potential. Wilson completed 16 of 29 passes for 264 yards, including two touchdown passes and a rushing touchdown. Receiver George Pickens recorded five catches for 111 yards and his first touchdown of the season, while running back Najee Harris surpassed 100 rushing yards for the second consecutive week. This marked the first time since 2020 that the Steelers have scored over 30 points in back-to-back games.
Wilson expressed enthusiasm about the team’s camaraderie and the fun they are having on the field, crediting Coach Tomlin for his unwavering belief in the players.
One element contributing to the team’s success is what Tomlin calls a “block culture,” as the defense managed to block a kick for the third straight game, which helped secure the victory against the Jets.
However, the Steelers must address their slow starts, having only scored one first-quarter touchdown in their first seven games. Falling behind against competitive teams may prove challenging in the second half of the season.
On the positive side, rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop has stepped up significantly in the absence of suspended Cam Sutton, making key interceptions that led to touchdowns. Conversely, Tomlin faced criticism for changing the starting quarterback, but he recognized the need for the offense to elevate its performance to be a viable contender in the AFC.
Injury updates include defensive tackle Montravius Adams, who left the game with a knee injury, and cornerback Donte Jackson, who suffered a shoulder injury.
The Steelers will aim to maintain their winning momentum as they prepare to face the struggling New York Giants on October 28 for “Monday Night Football.”