Steelers' lockdown defense is perfect safety blanket for Justin Fields' development

The Pittsburgh Steelers defense has been a crucial factor in allowing quarterback Justin Fields to grow and develop as the team’s starter. In their Week 2 showdown against the Denver Broncos, the defense stepped up once again, holding the Broncos to just two field goals in a dominant defensive performance that showcased their ability to control the game.

This effort gave Fields the perfect environment to manage the offense without the pressure of carrying the team solo. The former Buckeye finished the game without throwing an interception and completed his first touchdown pass. Fields' 117 passing yards seem minimal, but they kept the offense ahead of Denver throughout four quarters.

The Steelers' defense made life difficult for Broncos quarterback Bo Nix, hitting him seven times throughout the game and sacking him twice. This was the second week in a row that the Pittsburgh defensive line has asserted itself, bringing relentless pressure that disrupts opposing offenses and keeps games within reach for the Steelers’ evolving offense.

The front line’s aggression set the tone early, and Denver struggled to gain real momentum against Pittsburgh’s tenacious defense.

Steelers' defense protects Justin Fields from losing football games

Key defensive plays came from Cory Trice Jr. and Damontae Kazee, who both forced interceptions - assisting the offense in critical. Trice and Kazee’s ability to read Nix’s throws and create turnovers was another example of how defense equates to safety.

Whether it’s stuffing the run, applying pressure, or forcing turnovers, this group gives the Steelers a chance to win regardless of what the offense may struggle with.

The Pittsburgh defense has only allowed an average of 8 points per game through the first two weeks of the 2024 season. This kind of consistent, stingy defense provides the offense with a cushion, or safety blanket to play freely.

Even if mistakes happen on offense—as is expected when developing a young quarterback—the defense ensures those errors don’t automatically lead to losses. "It makes my job easy. The biggest thing each week is to take care of the ball because our defense is going to create turnovers.

It makes the offense's job easy" Fields stated after the game. They create an environment where Fields can take risks, learn from his mistakes, and continue to grow.

As Justin Fields works to cement his status as the Steelers' QB1, there is no better group to support his development than this defense. With their ability to shut down opponents and create turnovers, the defense allows the offense the breathing room it needs. Together, they have helped Pittsburgh to a 2-0 start, providing a stable platform for Fields to mature into the quarterback they need.