Pittsburgh Review

After a game marked by defensive plays that could have turned the tide, the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense fell short in Cleveland. Despite a strip, sack, and fumble recovery leading to a touchdown and an interception giving the offense another chance, they were unable to maintain their lead.

"We just didn't make some plays," said Teryl Austin, the defensive coordinator. "We had some opportunities, we just didn't get it done."

In the fourth quarter on November 21 in Cleveland, cornerback Donte Jackson's interception set up a critical moment for the Steelers. However, after a three-and-out and a 15-yard punt, the Browns started their drive at the visitor's 45-yard line with 3:22 left. A key conversion on fourth-and-3 from the Steelers' 38 helped Cleveland secure a nine-play drive for a decisive touchdown, ending in a 24-19 victory for them.

Austin reflected on this outcome by saying, "We know we're not going to be able to do it every time... We just weren't able to get it done last week."

This contrasted with previous games where the defense held strong. Against Baltimore on November 17 at Acrisure Stadium, they stopped quarterback Lamar Jackson's two-point conversion attempt after allowing a touchdown drive. On November 10 in Washington, safeties Minkah Fitzpatrick and Damontae Kazee tackled tight end Zach Ertz short of converting on fourth down late in regulation.

The defense also made crucial takeaways against the New York Giants on October 28. Outside linebacker T.J. Watt's play preserved their lead by sacking and stripping quarterback Daniel Jones' fumble. Cornerback Beanie Bishop later intercepted Jones to seal their win.

Earlier games against Atlanta and Denver saw less dramatic but essential defensive stops securing victories for Pittsburgh.

"What's worked for us is when we're doing a good job in our rush and coverage," Austin noted.

However, there were moments like October 6 against Dallas when they ceded late leads due to long drives culminating in touchdowns.

"I've said it before," Austin stated confidently about his team’s ability under pressure situations typical of NFL games: "I expect us... that we'll make the plays at end of game."