3 bold predictions for Steelers against Patriots
By Mark Powell
Steelers bold predictions: First steps to replace T.J. Watt
Earlier this week, I wrote about how the Steelers could replace T.J. Watt by committee. The first step to solving that equation is Alex Highsmith, who played quite well in Pittsburgh’s Week 1 victory in a hostile road environment.
Highsmith definitely benefits from playing opposite of Watt, but without that obvious distraction, will defenses focus more on him?
Pittsburgh knows their outside linebackers, and even Cam Heyward was impressed by Highsmith’s play last Sunday:
“He’s been out, but at the same time he’s conditioned himself for it,” Heyward said. “We ask a lot out of everybody on defense, but you know, I thought Alex day-in and day-out, he was always conditioned and trying to stay on top of it. Taking scout team reps, you name it. It’s a testament to him just being ready for the moment…”
Highsmith is just one play who must step up to replace Watt. Much of that job will come at a by-committee approach, with the likes of Heyward on the interior and even Watt’s replacement, Malik Reed, providing outside pressure.