BREAKING: Steelers to Face Colts Without Key Defenders — Cole Holcomb and Chuck Clark Out for Week 9

Pittsburgh, PA — The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing an uphill battle heading into their Week 9 showdown with the 7-1 Indianapolis Colts, and it just got a lot harder. After a pair of

devastating losses to the Cincinnati Bengals and Green Bay Packers, the Steelers are already struggling to regain their footing. Now, they’ll have to take on one of the hottest teams in the NFL without two key defensive pieces.

Cole Holcomb and Chuck Clark OUT for Week 9 — Major Defensive Losses

In shocking news, the Steelers have ruled out linebacker Cole Holcomb

and safety Chuck Clark for Sunday’s crucial matchup. Both players are dealing with illnesses, and their absence leaves a gaping hole in Pittsburgh's already struggling defense. Holcomb has been a key part of the linebacking corps, while Clark was expected to play a major role in the secondary.

“Losing both Cole and Chuck is a tough blow for us,” said Mike Tomlin, Steelers head coach. “We’re down two leaders on defense, but we’ve got to step up and find a way to get it done.”

With Holcomb and Clark sidelined, the Steelers will have to rely on Kyle Dugger, acquired in a trade with the New England Patriots, to step in at safety. At linebacker,

Payton Wilson will likely see an uptick in snaps, hoping to fill Holcomb’s shoes.

Pittsburgh’s Defense in Shambles — Can They Slow Down the Colts’ Explosive Offense?

The timing couldn’t be worse for the Steelers, as the

Indianapolis Colts have fielded a historically efficient offense through the first half of the season. With quarterback Daniel Jones playing at an MVP-caliber level and Jonathan Taylor leading the league in rushing, the Colts' attack is one of the most dynamic in the league.

The Steelers' defense, which has struggled all season, is now down two critical contributors at a time when they need to be at their best. Despite T.J. Watt and

Alex Highsmith leading the pass rush, creating pressure on Daniel Jones will be more important than ever to have a shot at slowing down the high-flying Colts offense.

“We’ve got to be relentless up front. If we can get to Jones, it gives us a chance. But without Cole and Chuck, we’ve got to really step up on every play.”

– T.J. Watt, Outside Linebacker, Pittsburgh Steelers

“We need to go toe-to-toe with them offensively. Our defense is banged up, but we’ve got the firepower on offense to put up points.”

– Aaron Rodgers, Quarterback, Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers’ Hopes Rest on Offense — Can They Keep Up With the Colts?

While the Steelers’ offense has had its own struggles this season,

Rodgers and the rest of the team will need to keep pace with the Colts' high-powered attack. The key to pulling off a shocking upset could be an offensive explosion, but with two key defensive starters out, it’s looking like an uphill climb for Pittsburgh.