Consecutive divisional matchups are a blessing in disguise for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Even if Mike McCarthy’s squad doesn’t realize it yet. Still, a trip to Huntington Bank Field will present challenges. Especially if injuries force Patrick Graham’s defense to become short-staffed.
And Denzel Boston is waiting to take advantage of a depleted secondary.
Nickel cornerback Jalen Ramsey is listed as limited due to a right wrist injury. It’s a tough pill to swallow, especially considering Joey Porter Jr. is now headed to Dallas in a massive trade.
The possibility of a depleted secondary is music to Boston’s ears.
And why wouldn’t it be? Cleveland’s rookie is surpassing expectations early in the campaign. After three games, Denzel Boston ranks first in receiving yards (195), yards per reception (21.7), and receiving yards per game among his rookie peers. He also has zero drops. It’s difficult to ignore the production considering his quarterback hasn’t played perfectly.
Heading into Week 4, Deshaun Watson ranks 24th in passing yards (587) and 15th in QBR (62.3). His experience is valuable but isn’t the main ingredient to Boston’s early success. The rookie is making the most of his reps.
And I expect him to continue to lead the charge for Cleveland Thursday evening.
The Pittsburgh Steelers cannot let Denzel Boston breakout during TNF
A determined Denzel Boston is not a pleasant sight for Pittsburgh to see with a depleted secondary. Last week, we witnessed Joe Burrow rack up 282 passing yards and three touchdowns against Patrick Graham’s unit. Ja’Marr Chase (98) and Tee Higgins (90) terrorized the defense, combining for 15 receptions and over 180 receiving yards with Ramsey on the field.
No, I don't believe Deshaun Watson and Denzel Boston are in the same tier as Burrow, Tee, and Chase. It’s their first year playing together, and they will need time to build that level of chemistry. But if Pittsburgh doesn’t make adjustments, the rookie could expose a glaring weakness’s
With Ramsey potentially out and Pittsburgh must rely on role players to fill vacancies. Asante Samuel Jr. will be someone to watch. He’s earned significant reps this season despite recent struggles. Last week, he allowed five receptions on five targets when matched up against Higgins and Chase.
It resulted in two touchdowns and a 157.1 passer rating allowed.
Daylen Everette may also see an increase in snap counts if Ramsey or Brandin Echols (concussion) is inactive Thursday night.
Another victory against an interdivisional foe will be a major accomplishment for Mike McCarthy’s unit. But a successful Thursday night showdown relies on the Pittsburgh Steelers' ability to shut down Denzel Boston with a bruised secondary.
I do not expect the rookie to record video-game numbers. But ignoring his role on Cleveland’s roster is malpractice.
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