The Steelers offense has gotten plenty of love this offseason with high praise and lofty expectations but now the defense gets some props from one of the top offensive players in the league.
At a local event in Southern California last week Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley took questions from a junior reporter on several topics including what defense is the toughest one he’s faced so far.
His answer: Your Pittsburgh Steelers.
"“I guess the Steelers, I had like nine yards.” – Todd Gurley"
He’s correct. Gurley accumulated over a thousand rushing yards in 2015 but during the Week 3 low-scoring matchup with the Steelers Gurley was held to nine yards on six carries. Rams quarterback Nick Foles even beat Gurley out in yardage for that game.
The Steelers would go on to win that game 12-6 but lose Ben Roethlisberger to a sprained MCL in the process. Michael Vick replaced Roethlisberger and secured the win for the Steelers.
The Steelers defense is looking to get more of the same stout rush defense this season out of Cameron Heyward, Stephon Tuitt and young guys Daniel McCullers and Javon Hargrave.
Next: Steelers love and snubs from NFL Top 100
Pittsburgh used to be known for its hard-hitting, tough defense. Perhaps their reputation is coming back around again.