Preseason action was in full swing Thursday Night. The fans at Acrisure Stadium soaked in every minute. Hosting the Green Bay Packers was more than a sentimental tribute for Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy. It was a chance for us to see if the Pittsburgh Steelers had changed for the better.
And Patrick Graham’s unit did not disappoint in a well-earned 28-9 win.
Setting the tone is a recurring message expressed by Pittsburgh’s newest defensive coordinator. His group understands the assignment. An impressive effort was enough to crack a smile. Defenders rallied to ball carriers with urgency, fluidity, and limited communication issues.
The results were evident. Patrick Graham’s unit held Jordan Love to an opening drive field goal. And the three points were more like a gift.
A gut-wrenching completion to Jayden Reed on 3rd-and-4 extended the drive. It was heartbreaking to see Pittsburgh’s secondary exposed in man coverage. But it would be one of the last blunders by the men at the top of the depth chart.
Adjustments were made, and the defense grew stronger. Pittsburgh limited the Packers to 3.3 yards per play while earning a sack in the first half. They even upped the ante, forcing punts on consecutive drives.
Still, it wasn't perfect by any means. Pittsburgh let Green Bay add another field goal to the scoreboard within the last minute of the second quarter. Mistakes during the defensive two minute drill were costly. But it was nice to see a response after shaky moments.
Patrick Graham's presence is making a positive change for the Pittsburgh Steelers defense
Witnessing improvement was a great feeling. Even if this was only a sample size. The last time we watched Pittsburgh's defense, Lamar Jackson passed for 175 yards and two touchdowns during wildcard weekend. Teryl Austin’s secondary was consistently mediocre, and it ultimately ended the season.
But something felt different Thursday.
Pittsburgh limited the Packers' offense to 97 passing yards. At times, the secondary was stingy. In other instances, they clung to a “bend but don't break” mentality.
Sure, Green Bay moved the ball downfield. But the Steelers refused to give up a touchdown.
No, Patrick Graham did not unveil his master plan during Week 1 of the preseason. But we witnessed his impact throughout the evening. Simulated blitz packages, personnel adjustments, and heightened morale were on full display.
The sight was more than refreshing.
Wins and losses are always important. But there are other ways to stack victories during the preseason. Graham’s defense earned a few against the Green Bay Packers. Not only did they limit points and earn five sacks. But they executed an innovative scheme well.
It also showed in individual performances. Asante Samuel Jr., Gabe Rubio, and Robert Spears-Jennings stood out among the group. They are certainly names to watch as weeks progress.
A strong defensive showing felt like the Pittsburgh football. It allowed Drew Allar and Will Howard a comfortable entrance into their first NFL action. It also provided the young gunslingers with enough cushion to take control of the game.
I am excited to see where Graham takes the Steelers. His hands-on approach during OTAs and training camp was intriguing to see. And after watching his defense, It's apparent players are buying into the scheme.
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