Quarterback Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills are currently on fire. With 26 total touchdowns, Allen is playing like an MVP and has led the Bills to a 9-3 record, putting them in prime position for a deep playoff run. However, former All-Pro linebacker Luke Kuechly recently joined Up & Adams to discuss a team that could potentially stop Allen and the Bills in their tracks.
Kuechly, who retired from the NFL in 2019 after an impressive eight-year career with the Carolina Panthers, knows a thing or two about dominant defenses. And according to him, there is one team that stands out as a potential threat to the Bills’ success – the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Steelers are currently the only undefeated team in the NFL with a record of 11-0. Led by their formidable defense, they have been dominating opponents all season long. Kuechly believes that their defense, which ranks first in the league in points allowed and second in yards allowed, has what it takes to stop Allen and the high-powered Bills offense.
But what exactly makes the Steelers defense so special? For starters, they have a strong and experienced defensive line led by Pro Bowl defensive end Cameron Heyward. Heyward has been a force to be reckoned with, recording six sacks and 38 tackles so far this season. He is joined by fellow Pro Bowler T.J. Watt, who has been a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks with 11 sacks and 36 tackles.
In addition to their talented defensive line, the Steelers also have a strong secondary led by veteran safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick has been a game-changer for the Steelers, recording four interceptions and 52 tackles this season. He is joined by cornerback Joe Haden, who has also been a key contributor to the Steelers’ success with two interceptions and 44 tackles.
But perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Steelers defense is their ability to create turnovers. They lead the league with 23 takeaways, including 17 interceptions. This is a major concern for the Bills, as Allen has thrown nine interceptions so far this season. If the Steelers defense can continue to force turnovers, they could easily disrupt the Bills’ offensive rhythm and give their team a chance to win.
However, despite Kuechly’s prediction, it’s important to note that the Bills have faced and defeated strong defenses this season. In Week 6, they defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, who have a top-10 defense, by a score of 26-17. In Week 10, they also defeated the Seattle Seahawks, who have a top-5 defense, by a score of 44-34. This shows that the Bills are more than capable of overcoming tough defenses and coming out on top.
Furthermore, Allen has been playing at an elite level this season and has proven to be a dual-threat quarterback. He has not only thrown for 3,403 yards and 26 touchdowns, but he has also rushed for 322 yards and six touchdowns. His versatility and ability to make plays with his arm and his legs make him a difficult opponent for any defense.
In addition, the Bills have a strong supporting cast on offense, including wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who leads the league in receiving yards, and running back Devin Singletary, who has rushed for 575 yards and two touchdowns. With these weapons at his disposal, Allen has been able to lead the Bills to victory against tough opponents.
It’s also worth mentioning that the Steelers have yet to face a quarterback like Allen this season. His combination of size, speed, and arm strength is a unique challenge that the Steelers defense may not be fully prepared for. This could give the Bills an advantage if they were to face off in the playoffs.
In the end, while Kuechly’s prediction may hold some weight, it’s important to remember that anything can happen in the NFL. The Bills have proven themselves to be a strong and resilient team, and they have what it takes to overcome any challenge that comes their way. So, while the Steelers defense may be a formidable opponent, the Bills and Josh Allen should not be underestimated. They are a force to be reckoned with and are more than capable of making a deep playoff run.
