Struggle with injuries highlighted as Pittsburgh Steelers visit New England Patriots amid defensive standoff
New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers Prepare for Clash in Foxborough
The New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers are set to square off in Foxborough, Massachusetts this Sunday, with both teams looking to turn their seasons around.
Injuries have been a concern for both sides. Rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon from Oregon, who missed the first two games due to a knee injury, declared his readiness to play. Fellow Patriots offensive lineman Max Scharping and defensive tackle Harmon had limited participation in practice on Wednesday.
On the other hand, Pittsburgh allowed 117 yards rushing on 29 attempts during their last game against Seattle. Cornerback Darius Slay, cornerback Joey Porter Jr., safety DeShon Elliott, linebacker Alex Highsmith, and linebacker T.J. Watt did not participate in practice on Wednesday due to various injuries or rest.
The Patriots are currently struggling defensively, having allowed a league-high 630 passing yards this season. However, they lead the league in sacks (nine), with linebacker Patrick Queen being a full participant in practice on Wednesday. Defensive end Keion White, however, was ill and did not practice.
One player who could make a significant impact for the Patriots is Christian Gonzalez. Gonzalez, who has been sidelined with a thigh injury since training camp, practiced for the first time since July 28. The team is optimistic about his potential availability for Sunday's game, and his return to practice is seen as a positive sign for the Patriots' defense.
However, it is not yet clear if Gonzalez will play this Sunday. He expressed his excitement to be back on the field, stating, "I love football. This is what I do, so I mean it's been very challenging to be out for so long."
The Steelers, who have allowed at least 30 points in each of the season's first two games, will be hoping to improve their defensive performance. They gave up 30 points or more twice last season.
The Patriots, who won their last game against Miami with a score of 33-27, will be trying to win back-to-back games for the first time since the 2022 season. The Steelers will be looking to stop this streak and get their first win of the season.
Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin cited attrition as a reason for the Seattle offense's success last Sunday. The Steelers will need to address this issue if they are to contain the Patriots' offense.
This promises to be an exciting match-up between two historic franchises. Stay tuned for updates!
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