Chicago’s hungry defensive front could give Steelers OL fits
Ben Roethlisberger has been blamed for the Steelers’ struggles on offense this season. His turnovers made it hard for the team to obtain a victory. When Pittsburgh began to take better care of the ball, they started to win more games. Roethlisberger has not thrown an interception in any of the Steelers’ victories, as a result, the offense has become more efficient. Najee Harris has seen an increase in carries, giving the Steelers an increase in point production.
Chicago has been leaning on their defense this season. According to NFL.com, the Bears’ defensive line is the fifth most productive against the pass. Khalil Mack and Robert Quinn’s goal has been to make the opposing quarterback feel uncomfortable. Chicago’s twenty-one sacks are tied for fourth-best in the NFL.
Matt Canada’s offensive line must continue to protect Big Ben. The Steelers quarterback has been sacked fourteen times this season. When compared to other starters, it is not so bad. The Steelers have protected their quarterback better than all their divisional rivals. Baker Mayfield, Joe Burrow, and Lamar Jackson have all been sacked twenty or more times. A balanced rushing attack has lightened the physical punishment that Roethlisberger has had to endure.
Monday Night Football is the perfect stage for an upset and the Bears are praying for an advantage. Heinz Field is the venue for the Steelers’ primetime game. Najee Harris will play a big part in the outcome. Harris found his stride during Pittsburgh’s three-game winning streak. He continues to improve. Chicago’s lackluster defense will present the rookie running back an opportunity to have a breakout game. If the Steelers remain focused under the Monday night lights, they will survive their Week 9 trap game.