NFL Week 9 Recap: Steelers Defensive Adjustments Spark Win

Warren Sharp analyzes how the Steelers' defensive changes secured their victory against the Colts in Week 9.

Strategic Defensive Shifts

The Steelers, known for their aggressive blitzing, reduced their blitz rate drastically from 46% in Week 8—the highest of the season—to just 24% against the Colts, marking their lowest rate of the year. This shift came after being overwhelmed by similar tactics used by the Green Bay Packers.

Coverage Modifications

Alongside the blitz reduction, Pittsburgh increased their use of Cover 2 coverage to the highest level of the season while decreasing man coverage to their second-lowest rate. This adjustment added unpredictability that disrupted the Colts' passing attack.

Run Defense Excellence

The Steelers recorded their strongest run defense performance of the season against the top-ranked rushing offense in the NFL, the Colts. Prior to this game, Pittsburgh had consistently faced teams with subpar rushing attacks, but rising to the challenge, they managed to contain the best rushing team in the league.

"The Steelers used their highest blitz rate of the season (46%) against the Green Bay Packers and were destroyed by it."

"Pittsburgh, the #3 most blitz-heavy team in the NFL, dropped their blitz rate from 46% in Week 8, their highest of the year, to 24% against the Colts, their lowest of the year."

"They played their highest rate of Cover 2 on the season and second-lowest rate of man coverage."

"The Steelers had their best run defensive performance of the season vs the NFL’s #1 best run offense."

Author’s summary: The Steelers' successful defensive win over the Colts was driven by key tactical shifts in blitzing, coverage schemes, and run defense strategy.

Sharp Football Analysis — 2025-11-05