## Steelers Defenders Baffled by Lapses in Third Consecutive Loss: ‘Can’t Explain It’
**PITTSBURGH, Pa.** – The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense, once a stalwart of the NFL, has stumbled upon a baffling three-game losing streak, leaving players scratching their heads in search of answers.
After a promising start to the season, the Steelers have allowed an average of 27.3 points per game in their last three outings, a stark contrast to their dominant performances in the past. The defense has particularly struggled in the second half, surrendering 10 touchdowns and forcing no turnovers in those periods.
“It’s been frustrating,” said linebacker T.J. Watt. “We’re just not playing to our standard. We’re making too many mental mistakes and not executing our assignments.”
The Steelers’ defense has been a key component of their success in recent years, helping them reach two Super Bowls and win one in 2009. But this season, they have been uncharacteristically vulnerable.
“We’re not getting enough pressure on the quarterback, and we’re not stopping the run,” said defensive end Cameron Heyward. “We’re just not playing together as a unit.”
### Secondary Struggles
The Steelers’ secondary has been particularly disappointing. Cornerback Joe Haden, who was signed in the offseason to bolster the unit, has struggled with injuries and has not been the same player he was in Cleveland.
“We’re not communicating well enough,” said safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. “We’re not on the same page, and it’s costing us.”
### Defensive Line Concerns
The defensive line, which has been a strength for the Steelers in the past, has also struggled. Without Watt, who is out with a pectoral injury, the pass rush has been anemic.
“We’re not getting enough sacks,” said Heyward. “We’re not disrupting the quarterback, and it’s making it easier for them to move the ball.”
### Coaching Changes
In an attempt to address the defensive struggles, the Steelers have made some coaching changes. Defensive coordinator Keith Butler was replaced by Teryl Austin, who was previously the defensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals.
“We’re trying to make some adjustments,” said head coach Mike Tomlin. “We’re looking for answers, and we’re going to keep working until we find them.”
### Time Running Out
With the Steelers now 1-4 on the season, time is running out for them to turn things around. The defense will need to improve significantly if the team is to have any chance of making the playoffs.
“We’re running out of time,” said Watt. “We need to figure this out, and we need to do it fast.”
The Steelers will face their toughest test yet when they travel to Baltimore to take on the Ravens on Sunday Night Football. The Ravens have one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL, and the Steelers’ defense will need to be at its best to slow them down.
“This is a big game for us,” said Tomlin. “We need to show that we can still play defense in Pittsburgh.”