The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to host the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium this week. The matchup is expected to be challenging, as the Colts arrive with a 7-1 record and hold first place in the AFC under quarterback Daniel Jones.
Colts head coach Shane Steichen addressed the difficulty of playing in Pittsburgh, noting the environment and quality of their opponent. “Starting off, looking at Pittsburgh, obviously a very talented football team going on the road in a hostile environment,” said Steichen. “Got a lot of respect for their players, their coach. I think they do a phenomenal job. So, we’re looking forward to the opportunity to go on the road.”
Steichen also spoke about facing Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers: “One of the best to do it for sure of all time. Still can throw the crap out of it. Makes really good decisions. So, we’ve got to do a great job with our coverages on the backend and our pass rush, because he can still do it at a high level. So, we just got to be ready to go.”
Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo described Rodgers’ abilities: “So many things. His amazing arm talent is still there. It’s amazing how he throws the ball, how fast. He gets the ball out faster than any quarterback in the league. He is still unbelievably accurate. Can make every throw at any point on the field.
“Obviously, he can see all the things you’re trying to do whether it’s a disguise or this or that. He’s seen it all.
“So, anytime you’re playing against a Hall of Fame player, especially at that position, it’s going to bring a ton of challenges. He’s been a great player, is a great player. We have the utmost respect for him.”
Quarterback Daniel Jones discussed Rodgers’ impact on his own career: “I’ve certainly looked up to him for a long time. It’s a lot of fun watching him play, just what he’s able to do physically, and then mentally as well. I think he’s one of the greats for sure. So, a ton of respect for him. I’ve always enjoyed watching him.”
Linebacker Zaire Franklin commented on Rodgers’ current situation with Pittsburgh: “I feel like he’s in a situation where he’s comfortable. I think the last few years he’s been uncomfortable, and I think that’s where some of the issues kind of arose. But obviously, we know the type of coach Mike Tomlin is. He gets all those guys to buy in, believe and they’re going to be a tough team. So, we got to make sure we’re ready.” Franklin added that making Rodgers uncomfortable during Sunday’s game would be their goal.
Tight end Tyler Warren shared his thoughts about competing against Rodgers: “That’ll be cool. I think it’ll be cooler when I’m actually on the field and see him out there, but yeah, he’s a great player. He’s one of the best.”
Jones also highlighted what stands out about facing Pittsburgh’s defense: “I think it’s just the way they play…they’re aggressive, fast flowing, downhill defense and how they want to play…a lot of respect for them and their group.”
Coach Steichen emphasized communication as key when playing in Pittsburgh due to crowd noise: “Communication has got to be at a premium…making sure we’re getting out of the huddle and making sure calls are correct – if we’re checking stuff at line…because it’s hard when you go on road with noise…”
Jones echoed these points regarding preparation for such an environment: “I think we’re looking forward to it…prepare for communication aspect…making sure we’re all on same page…”
Anarumo addressed tight end matchups as another factor in Sunday’s contest: “Those guys are such big skilled athletes these days…offensive coaches are using them right way…Pittsburgh in particular they’ve got four…” He credited offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s deployment strategies.
Warren reflected on playing in an NFL venue like Acrisure Stadium: “…it’s cool…when you get there take it in maybe…but not make it something where it’s going affect me…” He stressed focusing during preparation week.
Special Teams Coordinator Brian Mason recognized Pittsburgh’s strong special teams unit: “Pittsburgh traditionally is very good at special teams…have very experienced and very good special teams coordinator…probably best overall special teams personnel that we have faced all year…”
Warren mentioned his connection with Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth from Penn State but noted limited contact during this season.
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