PatsFans/Logue: A Look at 3rd Downs vs. Steelers

If you were going to point the finger at one solitary thing that lost the Steelers game for the Pats it has to be 3rd down defense in my opinion. If the defense forces just one punt from the ten 3rd downs they allowed to be converted it could’ve made the difference in a one score game.

As Belichick pointed out on WEEI on Monday the Steelers have one of the best 3rd and long offenses in the NFL, so the Pats should’ve been better prepared. I know we’re all feeling pretty dismal about the Pats legitimate Super Bowl hopes but let’s just remember, this is a young defense that is struggling with communication. That is something that will get better over the course of the season. If they’re communicating and have everyone on the same page and still fail to make plays then we can talk further about the talent level.

Ian does a great job in the article and includes some really great pictures to help break it down. Below is the 3rd down I found most maddening,it’s a 3rd and 15 in the 3rd quarter.