Steelers Champion Makes Bold T.J. Watt, Nick Herbig Statement
PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have seen a complete revival of sorts on both sides of the ball, as they have jumped out to a 4-1 record to begin the season.
The offensive game has changed significantly, but the defense has looked the strongest it has in years.
Part of that has been due to outside linebacker Nick Herbig, whose defensive prowess this season has rivaled some of the best in the league.
Steelers Super Bowl Champion Makes Bold Claim
Former Steelers defensive lineman Chris Hoke took to KDKA to claim that Herbig has outplayed teammate T.J Watt to this point.
"His biggest asset is his quickness off the ball. He's so explosive off the ball [that] tackles don't have enough time to kick back,” Hoke said. "He's able to get around that corner very, very quick. Right now, in my mind, he's the best pass rusher with the Steelers even with T.J. Watt out on the field".
How Herbig Can Boost Entire Pass Rush
He then spoke on how Herbig’s surge will affect how teams treat him and Watt going forward. With one surging at one time, teams will have to adjust to defend the other despite having a personnel disadvantage.
"Nick Herbig is a guy that you have to account for, which is going to open up opportunities now for T.J. Watt." Hoke said. "How many times do you hear that? T.J. Watt's opening up opportunities for other people. Herbig's going to open up opportunities for T.J. Watt, Highsmith and the other rushers because of how explosive he is".
Herbig is a couple years younger than Watt yet has put himself in position to be one of the best players on the defensive side of the ball across the entire National Football League.
With the extension given to Watt heading into the season, the team is likely to have the services of both for the near future. If teams are focusing on stopping one of the players, they will have to recognize their offensive line’s weakness in stopping the other of the two.
With an abnormally weak divisional schedule this season and part of the season behind them already, Herbig should be able to continue to thrive for the Steelers as the season carries on. The team should perform strongly as well, as much of their injured players recovered ahead of their Week 6 victory. Miles Killebrew and Calvin Austin III seem to be the major injuries still remaining for the Steelers, so the next couple weeks without their services are tantamount to their success the rest of the way as a whole.
Lamar Jackson and Roquan Smith Expected to Return After Bye Week, Boosting Ravens’ Playoff Hopes
The Baltimore Ravens are set to receive a significant boost after their bye week, with quarterback Lamar Jackson and linebacker Roquan Smith expected to return to action. Both players have been sidelined with hamstring injuries, and their absence has been felt in the team’s recent performances. Jackson missed the last two games, while Smith has also been dealing with a similar injury. However, the Ravens are optimistic that their return will help improve the team’s overall performance in the second half of the season.
"Lamar and Roquan are key pieces of our team, and we’ve missed them on both sides of the ball," said Ravens head coach John Harbaugh. "We’re hopeful they’ll be back and ready to contribute after the bye week. Both players have been working hard on their recovery, and we’re excited to get them back on the field."
Jackson, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, is a critical leader for the Ravens’ offense. His mobility and playmaking ability have been central to the team’s success this season, and his return is expected to provide a much-needed spark. Jackson’s absence in the last two games was noticeable, but backup quarterback Tyler Huntley stepped in admirably, keeping the team competitive.
"I’ve been doing everything I can to get back on the field and help the team," Jackson said in a recent interview. "It’s frustrating to be sidelined, but I’m feeling better every day, and I can’t wait to get back out there."
Smith, a key defensive leader, has also been sidelined with a hamstring injury, but his return is just as crucial for the Ravens’ defensive unit. Known for his ability to read offenses and make crucial tackles, Smith’s presence will help stabilize a defense that has faced some challenges in recent weeks. His leadership and ability to control the middle of the field will be a huge asset as the Ravens look to make a playoff push.
"Roquan’s leadership and playmaking are huge for us," Harbaugh continued. "He’s been a great asset since joining the team, and we’re looking forward to having him back to help anchor our defense."
With both Jackson and Smith expected to return after the bye week, the Ravens are optimistic that their playoff hopes remain strong. The team is looking to get back on track in the second half of the season and push for a spot in the postseason.
"We’re focused on getting better every week," Jackson concluded. "I’m excited to be back with my teammates and give everything I’ve got to help us reach our goals."
