Fansided

Dick LeBeau says age isn’t problem for Steelers defense

By Josh Sanchez

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Dec 30, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau talks with safety Troy Polamalu (43) and linebacker Larry Foote (50) against the Cleveland Browns during the first half of the game at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau talks with safety Troy Polamalu (43) and linebacker Larry Foote (50) against the Cleveland Browns during the first half of the game at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports /

The Pittsburgh Steelers strength has often been the stellar play from their defense, but the unit has struggled in 2013 and the entire team has suffered as a result. Pittsburgh now finds themselves on the outside looking in for answers and the criticism is being directed at many of the team’s aging defensive stars.

However, as far as defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau is concerned, age is not the reason that the Steelers have had a difficult time stopping opposing offenses.

“I don’t believe the problems we’re experiencing there are age-related. I really don’t,” LeBeau said, via Scott Brown of ESPN.com. “I definitely don’t think the defense needs rebuilding. Maybe their coach is getting a little old. I think the players can still get it done. I do.”

The Steelers secondary has been one of their biggest weaknesses, which would go against LeBeau’s comments.

When you look at the play of Troy Polamalu, Ike Taylor and Ryan Clark, it appears clear that they have lost a step and teams are able to take advantage of them slowing down.

You can’t fault LeBeau for sticking behind his guys and showing strong support, but that can only go so far and the Steelers will need to address the issue during the offseason and focus on bringing younger talent to the Steel City so they can bounce back in 2014.

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