4 bold predictions for the Steelers preseason game vs Lions

Steelers defense plays lights out

It is no secret that the Steelers’ defense was great last year. Frankly, without them, this team would not have been as successful as they were. That said, the defense lost a handful of starters in the offseason and will regress. The only question is to what degree? Based on what has been seen so far in camp, there is a chance that this unit only takes a minor step back. With the starters set to play, fans should get their first taste of what to expect from this group.

The front seven looks stacked. Alex Highsmith has made a huge jump and Melvin Ingram has provided a capable third option. Add in T.J. Watt and all of the talent along the defensive line and this group should once again constantly put pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The defense got immensely better with the trade for Joe Schobert as well. While it is still unclear just what his role will be, he has instantly elevated the linebacker room.

While the secondary took some major hits in free agency, James Pierre has seemingly risen out of the ash to provide hope. While he still has a lot to prove as a former undrafted player, he has been a stud in training camp so far. This gives the starting secondary some more flexibility. While this group isn’t deep (as opposed to the immensely deep front seven), their starters offer a lot of intrigue. I expect this group to be a shining star for however long they play against the Lions.