Why the Steelers need Polamalu and Harrison
By Brian Morrin
Polamalu and Harrison set for return
For the first time in a long time, the Pittsburgh Steelers offense is clicking while their defense is struggling. The Steelers are off to a 1-2 start this season and it is no secret that their defense has been behind their two losses.
Some could say it’s the aging defense, which is somewhat true. But while I don’t deny that, I believe missing Troy Polamalu and James Harrison has given this dominant defense a significant hit. The two are set to return this Sunday in Pittsburgh when the Steelers take on the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Steelers need Polamalu and Harrison, but they are on the back burners of their careers and soon the Steelers will have to search for younger players to replace the two Pro Bowl players.
Troy’s presence alone makes is a huge factor, as it forces the opposing teams to game plan around him.
As for Harrison, his pass rushing ability is not only a key for his success, but a key success to LaMarr Woodley’s performance. Woodley hasn’t been outstanding this season; however, without Harrison on the field it allows opposing team’s offenses to focus on containing him. With the return of Harrison it will put more pressure on the blind side and help the Steelers’ non-existent pass rush.
At first the early bye week seemed like a negative in the Steelers’ schedule, due to the aging defense that they have. Now with injuries to Polamalu and Harrison, the bye week could not have come at a better time for a defense that went from being ranked No. 1 to a unit that matches the team’s below-.500 record.
All in all, the Pittsburgh Steelers are ready to get Troy and James back and get back to work. You can be sure that the fans will be filled with excitement when the gates open to Heinz Field and they see the hard-hitting linebacker and the safety with his long locks hit the field with their fellow teammates.