Jon Ferrari Assistant General Manager | Philadelphia Eagles Website
Jon Ferrari Assistant General Manager | Philadelphia Eagles Website
The Pittsburgh Steelers have become a formidable force in the NFL this season, boasting a league-leading 28 takeaways. Their success is reflected in their impressive 10-3 record, with victories in seven of their last eight games. This achievement can be attributed to their defensive prowess under Defensive Coordinator Teryl Austin.
"They create pressure and they do it in a lot of ways," said Eagles' left guard Landon Dickerson. "They're just really good. They like to come after you from the start of the game until the end, so it's a great challenge. Looking forward to it."
The Steelers' defense has evolved from its historic Steel Curtain days, now featuring an exceptional front seven led by edge rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, alongside Cameron Heyward and linebacker Patrick Queen. The secondary, spearheaded by safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, has contributed significantly with 13 fumble recoveries and 15 interceptions this season.
Watt and Heyward have combined for 18 of the team's 32 sacks, while Nick Herbig adds another threat with his 4.5 sacks. The defense's ability to stifle opposing offenses will be tested against the Philadelphia Eagles' potent rushing attack led by Saquon Barkley.
"It's going to be a great game. It's going to be a great matchup," commented Eagles' left tackle Jordan Mailata on the upcoming clash at the line of scrimmage. He acknowledged the depth of both teams' lines and anticipated a fierce battle.
Philadelphia's offense leads the NFL in rushing yards thanks to contributions from Barkley, Kenneth Gainwell, and quarterback Jalen Hurts. The Eagles have been efficient with minimal turnovers during their nine-game winning streak.
Hurts recognizes the challenge posed by Pittsburgh's defense: "Obviously, they've got a great player over there in T.J. Watt and then Minkah – all-around safety, all-around defensive back... It'll be a battle," he stated.
As both teams prepare for this significant matchup, fans can expect an intense contest between two strong units vying for supremacy on Sunday.
Alerts Sign-up