If the Steelers intend to compete for a Super Bowl, it’s not just the offensive side that needs addressing. While their defense started off the season well, they wound up among the bottom-feeders. In their last five games, they allowed 27.4 points per game and 397.2 yards. The Steelers knew their defense would need to shoulder the load, but it buckled when needed most.
And the Steelers needed their defense to step up against Ravens RB Derrick Henry, who dominated them twice in a month. While they handled him reasonably well in their first meeting, he put the hurt on them in two critical games.