4 winners and 4 losers from Steelers 28-24 win vs. Ravens

Winners: The OLBs

While the defense did have a few major contributors, the play the team had from its three outside linebackers was key in winning this game. Yes, that wasn’t a typo, as all three of T.J. Watt, Bud Dupree, and Alex Highsmith saw extensive playing time this week. Likewise, all three were arguably the best defenders not named Stephon Tuitt for the defense this week. Starting with Watt, he continued his dominant season, adding a sack and proving to be a force against the running game.

It is hard to keep a player like Watt off this list every week due to his dominance. The same could be said for Dupree, who really looked strong again this week against the pass. He has truly come into his own as a rusher and still remains one of the better run defenders on the team. As long as those two stay healthy, the Steelers pass rush should continue to succeed as it has so far.

Arguably the biggest star of the group was Highsmith though, as his play was excellent for a rookie. Seeing time as a rotational backup and even on the field for some plays with the other two linebackers, Highsmith made the most of his time, logging some key run stops and recording a critical interception in the Ravens territory. This later led to the Steelers scoring and beginning their comeback. All three players deserve some accolades for this game, as they helped the Steelers defense keep the Ravens in check.