Defense Gets Second Chance vs. Jets
"Back in the week before Christmas, the Steelers special teams allowed a 97-yard kickoff return and their offense gave up a safety that, combined, made a difference in their
22-17 loss to the New York Jets in Heinz Field.
But the NFL's No. 1 defense in points allowed, sacks and yards per play did little to stem the tide.
The only other time the Steelers were held without a turnover and with one sack or fewer in a game was their worst loss of the season, to New England at home, 39-26.
Clearly, the defense must force some errors Sunday, whether they are sacks or turnovers. But maybe, as Tomlin indicated, it will not be up to the Steelers, it will depend on the offensive coordinator of the New York Jets.
"I think it was coach Schottenheimer more than anything else", Tomlin said of Sanchez's ability to avoid the pass rush Dec. 19. "He moved the pocket, he booted him, he had some quick game, and then he took his shots or spots when he was throwing the ball vertically.
"But it wasn't anything special that he did in response to playing the Pittsburgh Steeler defense. It's what they quite frankly do every weekend. It's what they did in New England. It's what they did in Indy."
Someone delivered those 171 yards lost on sacks, and those 13 interceptions of Sanchez in 2010, but the Steelers defense wasn't among them."