Steelers' defense struggles again, allowing high yardage in loss to Packers, Tomlin addresses concerns

The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing a defensive crisis, struggling to contain opposing quarterbacks as their season progresses.

Why it matters: The Steelers defense has been unable to perform up to its historical standards, which could jeopardize the team's playoff aspirations. With a current record of 7-1 and an offense led by quarterback Jordan Love, the Green Bay Packers exposed the weaknesses in Pittsburgh’s secondary during their recent matchup.

By the numbers:

• The Steelers have allowed at least 30 points in four of their last seven games.
• They rank 32nd in the league for passing yards allowed per game (273.3) and 30th in total yards allowed (386).

What’s new: Following a disappointing loss to the Packers, head coach Mike Tomlin expressed concern over the unit's performance but emphasized that changes were not imminent regarding defensive playcalling.

• Tomlin stated, "That's not on the table as we sit here today. We just got to keep doing what we're doing and do it better."

Yes, but: Despite acknowledging the issues, Tomlin remains confident in defensive coordinator Teryl Austin’s capabilities.

• The Steelers plan to bolster their defense by potentially signing veteran safeties like Vonn Bell or Eddie Jackson, particularly with starter DeShon Elliott now considered "week-to-week" due to a hyperextended knee.

What to watch: The Steelers must address their alarming trend of allowing quarterbacks to achieve season-high yardage totals against them.

• Notably, Jordan Love completed 20 consecutive passes against the Steelers, reflecting a systemic issue in their pass defense strategy.

The bottom line: As the season unfolds, the Steelers must find solutions quickly; otherwise, their lackluster defensive performance may undermine any potential for success in the playoffs.

Between the lines: Juan Thornhill's comments about team effort signal discontent within the locker room, hinting at broader issues that could affect team morale.

• "If I'm being completely honest, I don't feel like the effort was there," Thornhill noted, highlighting the need for increased accountability among players.

Zoom Out: The Steelers’ defensive struggles contrast sharply with the offensive firepower displayed by other teams in the league, most notably the Indianapolis Colts, who lead the NFL in scoring.

• If the Steelers cannot adapt and improve defensively, they risk falling further behind teams that are capitalizing on every opportunity afforded to them.