We already know about the war with words Baltimore Ravens’ Terrell Suggs has waged on their opponents at times this year. The Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t immune to some trash talking but they have to figure out how to actually stop Suggs on the field. He’s having a great season and could make an argument as the best player on one of the league’s best defenses.
NFL Playoffs, Ravens Vs. Steelers: How Do You Stop Terrell Suggs?
SB Nation’s Behind The Steel Curtain wonders: How can Suggs be stopped?
With all due respect to Steelers LT Jonathan Scott, he's not going to block Suggs on his own. The Steelers will employ an scheme utilizing a tight end - either Heath Miller or Matt Spaeth - along with a halfback or fullback to chip off Suggs, giving Scott some help. It wouldn't be surprising to see them run the ball at Suggs early in the game to see how he commits to it. A well-timed screen or delayed run that catches Suggs upfield could help slow him down.
They go on to call these games “methodical” which is the best way to put it. I think both sides know a field goal or even a touchdown is even more important in a game like this where the highest score of the game may not top 20 points. Both defenses are among the league’s elite so if it takes you several offensive series’ to set up a big play then so be it.
Keeping an eye on someone like Suggs and neutralizing him should be a priority for the Steelers. They can’t let Ben Roethlisberger and Co. turn the ball over and give the field position to Baltimore. Suggs is capable of getting to the quarterback and creating a turnover so keeping him away from the backfield will be critical.
Check out Behind The Steel Curtain and Baltimore Beatdown for more on the game.
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