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Steelers Trio: Grading the ingredients to success against the Titans

By Jobe Morrison

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - AUGUST 25: JuJu Smith-Schuster #19 of the Pittsburgh Steelers catches a touchdown pass against LeShaun Sims #36 of the Tennessee Titans during the first half of a preseason game at Nissan Stadium on August 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - AUGUST 25: JuJu Smith-Schuster #19 of the Pittsburgh Steelers catches a touchdown pass against LeShaun Sims #36 of the Tennessee Titans during the first half of a preseason game at Nissan Stadium on August 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images) /
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NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – AUGUST 25: Vince Williams #98 of the Pittsburgh Steelers sacks quarterback Ryan Tannehill #17 of the Tennessee Titans during the first half of a preseason game at Nissan Stadium on August 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – AUGUST 25: Vince Williams #98 of the Pittsburgh Steelers sacks quarterback Ryan Tannehill #17 of the Tennessee Titans during the first half of a preseason game at Nissan Stadium on August 25, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images) /

Tomatoes: Linebackers

This preseason has given a big opportunity for the linebackers to shine. With the starting defense getting roughly a quarter and half together, we got to see a physical, fast defense on display—something we can feel optimistic about translating to the regular season.

The middle linebackers were all over the place. Devin Bush’s speed was on display as well as Vince Williams on a few occasions—including a big-time sack. Ulysees Gilbert also continued his strong preseason with 5 combined tackles. The once questioned inside linebacker corps could finally have some solid depth.

In addition to the interior linebackers, the outside linebackers shined. Bud Dupree and TJ Watt played with high levels of speed and put the pressure on Mariotta and Tannehill. The dark horse Tuzar Skipper also had a strong performance recording 4 solo tackles and a sack—a much needed strong follow up performances.

Overall, the linebackers played with speed and physicality that has not been seen in quite some time. Could this be the return of Steeler football for the defense?

Verdict: Good quality

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