Bonjour, Who Dat Nation!
The Saints have traveled across the world and will find their offense going up against one of the best defenses in the league. The Steelers’ defense is a top-10 unit overall, and the matchup advantages they have could allow them to exploit the biggest issue with the Saints’ offense.
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The Steelers’ defense is led by a legend in the making, T.J. Watt. So far this season, Watt has 4.5 sacks, 6 tackles for loss, and 15 total tackles. He also has a forced fumble and an interception, which he returned for a touchdown. The Steelers’ defensive unit as a whole has 16 sacks on the season, which ranks in the top 10 in the league. They are also in the top 10 in turnover differential at +3 on the season.
The Steelers’ defense is what is carrying the team. So far, no opponent has been able to score more than 27 points against them. They feature elite players at every level, including Watt and Alex Highsmith as pass rushers, along with Jalen Ramsey, who can play all over the secondary.
This is not a matchup that will be easy for the Saints. If anything, the Steelers may very well be able to exploit the Saints’ biggest weakness, which is the offensive line.
The Saints average 224 passing yards per game, while the Steelers allow only 204 passing yards per game. The Steelers average about 2.7 sacks per game, while the Saints are allowing 2.17. Having Asim Richards on the offensive line against T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith is something Kellen Moore will have to prepare for.
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The Steelers’ rushing defense does present an opportunity for the Saints to have some success, as Pittsburgh is allowing 103.2 rushing yards per game. Unfortunately, the Saints are averaging only 97.3 rushing yards per game. The Saints were able to establish a running game last week against the Giants and will have to do so again in Paris. If they are unable to establish the run, it will put them in obvious third-and-long situations.
If the Saints are going to win this game, they will have to make sure to utilize motion to identify coverages, establish the running game early, and keep the offense on schedule. Third-and-long situations are a recipe for disaster against a pass rush this dangerous, especially with an offensive line that has obvious protection issues.
There is some excitement building around the possibility that Jordyn Tyson could make his season debut this week since he traveled with the team. If he is able to play in this game, it would be a big addition, giving the Saints another weapon in the passing game. Tyson is also a very willing blocker at the receiver position and could help improve the running game a little bit as well, especially if the Saints are able to get their running backs to the edge.
This will be a big test for the Saints’ offense and coaching staff. Hopefully, they are fully prepared and up for the task.
How do you think the Saints’ offense matches up against the Steelers’ defense? Share your thoughts in the comments.
