Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers vs. Bengals: Coordinators Comments

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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The Steelers kick off their home schedule with some good old fashioned AFC North action against the Bengals.

The offensive and defensive coordinators spoke to the media after Thursday’s practice to answer questions on what they liked from that week and what they expect from this week.

Defense

Defensive coordinator Keith Butler talked about going up against Bengals receiver A.J. Green. His first comments were just commenting about the logistical problems in covering Green.

“He’s da-gum tall.” – Keith Butler

The defense will try to get after Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton more than they rushed Kirk Cousins on Monday night. Last week the Jets defense was able to sack Dalton seven times but he was still able to connect with Green for 12 receptions for 180 yards and a touchdown.

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That will be the biggest obstacle the Steelers defense will face so far. If they can effectively stop Green they’ll likely come out with the victory. Butler urged that the main focus will be to apply pressure to Dalton. If they can force him to make mistakes, then Green won’t be a problem.

The good news from Thursday’s practice was on the injury front as far as the limited participation for linebacker Ryan Shazier. Fans should also get to see cornerback Justin Gilbert on the field for the defense this week.

You can listen to all of Keith Butlers remarks right here.

Offense

On the offensive side of the ball Todd Haley explained how Monday night was a pretty good step for the offense this season.

He thought Eli Rogers made some good plays on Monday but faces a bigger test against the Bengals as now they have game tape to prepare for him with. He calls the slot wide receiver position as “predominantly” belonging to Rogers now.

Haley acknowledged that the Bengals defense has always given Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown trouble as far as the stats show their production dips when facing Cincinnati. He attributes the familiarity with facing the division foes twice a season for how they’re able to limit Brown’s numbers.

He goes on to praise DeAngelo Williams on his conditioning and preparation for how he’s been able to produce at the level he does being that he’s the oldest running back in the league. Haley responded that Williams could be starting for any other team in the league and the Steelers are fortunate to have him.

Haley also sang the praises for right tackle Marcus Gilbert for his pulling abilities on Monday night to create the space Williams was able to run with.

I think all of Steeler Nation was excited to see the offense put up 38 points last week even without Le’Veon Bell. As long as everyone stays healthy the sky is the limit.

You can listen to Haley’s comments right here.

Bring on the Bengals! Here we go Steelers! Here we go!