The Steelers’ defense has arrived at a crossroads. During the past couple of seasons, the defense has experienced an uncharacteristic change in philosophy. While the slight changes in terminology and player responsibilities might seem minor to some, they represent changes just the same.
Transitioning from geriatric marvel Dick LeBeau to his longtime understudy Keith Butler seemed to make perfect sense. A complete defensive overhaul wasn’t required for a team harboring championship aspirations. Only a few tweaks here and there seemed necessary.
The team had run the 3-4 defense for decades with great success, and had drafted accordingly, so why try to reinvent the wheel now?