Steelers Scouting Report: New England Patriots, Week 3

The Steelers offensive line is still trying to mesh more effectively with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, learning how he moves in the pocket. They will be challenged to keep the Patriots out of the offensive backfield while also providing enough push up front to open the run game for Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell.

Landry did show up on the injury report this week with a foot issue, which is something for fans to keep an eye on.

Related:

• Patriots injury report
• Patriots depth chart
• Steelers injury report

Maye finding a rhythm?

Against the Miami Dolphins in Week 2, Drake Maye made a step forward in his position as starting quarterback. Maye completed 19-of-23 passes for 230 yards and two touchdowns and added 10 carries for 33 yards and another score. No Patriots QB has matched that feat since Tom Brady (2 passing, 1 rushing touchdowns in a single game).

“It’s hard being a young quarterback, but I feel like he is doing the best job he can… and that’s something to be happy about.” – Patriots WR Stephon Diggs

With a myriad of injuries on defense – including Alex Highsmith (ankle), Isaiahh Loudermilk (ankle), DeShon Elliott (knee), and Derrick Harmon (knee) – the Steelers may have issues attempting to keep Maye in the pocket. T.J. Watt has yet to earn a sack this season – an unexpected drought – and it looks as if Nick Herbig will slide into Highsmith’s spot.

While Maye can hurt the Steelers with his arm and legs, the Patriots also hope to get their ground game going with Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson; both backs are capable in the open field as receivers, too.

Pittsburgh’s defense has been attacked on the ground, with success, in back to back games. Down additional personnel, their play has to be elevated to stay competitive.

Related:

• Steelers vs. Seahawks: 5 Surprises in Sunday’s Loss
• How can the Steelers defense change course?

Vrabel cautiously optimistic

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel isn’t giving his team a pass on not continuing to improve. “There’s a lot of good things and a lot of things we’ll have to fix,” Vrabel told the media. One of the issues he was talking about what the number of penalties the team took last week: 12.

The offensive line was called for four false start penalties. That is the type of miscue that can hinder the confidence of any quarterback, let alone a young one.

Vrabel wants those errors cleaned up and for Maye to not try to be heroic in carrying the offense. He reiterated that being concise over perfect was the goal.