NFL Week 9 Recap: Steelers Defensive Adjustments Spark Win

Warren Sharp analyzes how strategic defensive changes enabled the Steelers to secure a victory over the Colts in Week 9.

Steelers’ Defensive Strategy Shift

In Week 8, the Steelers employed their highest blitz rate of the season at 46%, which backfired against the Green Bay Packers. Facing the Colts in Week 9, who had also thrived against blitzing, Pittsburgh drastically reduced their blitz frequency to 24%, marking their lowest rate this season. This adjustment was key to disrupting the Colts' offense.

Schematic Changes and Coverage

The Steelers also increased their use of Cover 2 defense to the highest level of the season while minimizing man coverage to their second-lowest rate. This tactical creativity made their defensive scheme unpredictable and hindered the Colts' passing effectiveness.

Run Defense Improvement

Another notable factor was Pittsburgh’s improved run defense against the NFL's top-ranked rushing offense, the Colts. Despite ranking 16th in run defense overall and having faced mostly weaker rushing teams (#18 or lower) in previous games, the Steelers delivered their best run defense performance this season against the leading rushing team.

"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."

Overall, the Steelers' defensive adaptability and strategic variation were crucial in overcoming a strong Colts offense.

Author's summary: The Steelers’ lowered blitz rate and defensive scheme innovation disrupted the Colts' offense, while their improved run defense proved decisive in Week 9’s victory.

Sharp Football Analysis — 2025-11-05