Steelers Defensive Struggles Highlighted in Bears Matchup

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense faced significant challenges in their matchup against the Chicago Bears, culminating in a disheartening 31-point performance by their opponents. According to Steelers Now, this marked the second time this season the Steelers allowed 30 or more points, a troubling statistic that echoes a similar defensive collapse in 2013, when they finished 8-8 and missed the playoffs. This season, the Steelers have given up over 30 points in five games, a stark contrast to last season when they only did so twice. Currently, they rank 20th in scoring defense, allowing 23.9 points per game, and they have the second-most passing yards against them at 258.7 per game, alongside the fifth-most total yards at 364.5 per game.

In terms of tackling, the Steelers saw a slight improvement against the Bears, missing only seven tackles, the first time in six weeks they didn't record double-digit misses, as reported by Steelers Depot. However, despite this improvement, the lack of effectiveness in the secondary was evident, as the Bears were able to exploit the passing game with ease. Linebacker Patrick Queen expressed post-game concerns about the team's scheme, hinting at deeper issues within the defensive strategy.

Notably, key missed tackles were logged by several players, including T.J. Watt and James Pierre, who both missed a tackle on the same play. Watt's attempt to stop running back D'Andre Swift ended in a whiff, while Pierre's efforts also fell short, allowing the Bears to gain significant yardage. Queen's missed tackle on a sack attempt added to the frustrations of a defense that is struggling to contain opposing offenses.

Looking ahead, the Steelers have a daunting schedule that includes upcoming matchups against high-scoring teams like the Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills, who rank second and fifth in the league in scoring offense, respectively. The Steelers' defensive performance will be critical as they navigate through these tough games, especially with playmakers like Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry looming on the horizon.

In response to their defensive struggles, the Steelers signed former Rams and Cardinals defensive tackle Anthony Goodlow to their practice squad, as reported by Behind the Steel Curtain. Goodlow, who stands 6'5" and weighs 300 pounds, brings substantial size to the defensive line, but he is noted for being more of a developmental player, lacking explosiveness and the ability to consistently penetrate the offensive line. His addition may indicate a strategic shift as the Steelers seek to bolster their defensive front amidst ongoing challenges on that side of the ball.