Steelers defensive backs coach Carnell Lake said early in training camp that he was not against giving his young defensive backs a baptism by fire. It’s now a reality for Lake as rookies Sean Davis and Artie Burns prepare for what could be major roles in the opener against the Washington Redskins.
Defensive coordinator Keith Butler would like nothing more than to play his most experienced personnel in a season opener. One need only look back at the season-opening loss in New England last year to realize how important cohesion and strong communication among defenders can be.
But sometimes, as much as coaches would like to dictate the terms of matchups, they simply don’t have that ability.