4 burning questions Steelers desperately need to answer in Week 8 vs. Jaguars

3. Can the Steelers stop Travis Etienne?

It was a relatively slow start for the running back who went one pick after Najee Harris in the draft. While he would get his yards, his running was inefficient and he wasn’t as big of an impact player as many expected him to make. That has since changed over the past three weeks, as he compiled over 350 total yards and found the end zone six times.

The Steelers run defense, on the other hand, has been one of the worst in the league. While the Rams didn’t boast a big day on the ground, their committee of lackluster veterans found success when called upon. Darrell Henderson was called up after barely playing last year and was effective. Etienne could be in for a big day.

The thing is, Etienne has been a key reason why the Jaguars are on this roll. The passing game has been ok, but certainly nothing special. The combination of a consistent game through the air and the big play ability of Etienne has caused the Jaguars to get back on track this season.

While every resource can’t be committed to stopping the ground game, as Jacksonville can throw the ball as well, if Etienne is allowed to continue his success on the ground it is going to be a long day for the Steelers. Stopping the run has to be a priority this week if Pittsburgh wants a shot at winning this game.