The Miami Dolphins are heading north to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers on “Monday Night Football,” and that means it is time to go behind enemy lines with Steelers Wire for the inside scoop on this week’s opponent.
1. How has safety Minkah Fitzpatrick been in getting integrated into the Steelers defense?
Fitzpatrick has been a significant factor in the Steelers’ defensive turnaround. He gives the Steelers a true deep free safety with range — something the Steelers haven’t had in a very long time. His coverage skills have had a huge positive impact on the front seven in terms of how aggressive the defense can be.
2. What was the thought process in Pittsburgh parting with their 2020 first-round pick for Fitzpatrick after Ben Roethlisberger went down?
I think the front office believed then, and still believe, they can win the AFC North. They were also aware Sean Davis was about to go on IR and the depth behind him was nonexistent. Fitzpatrick was also a player the Steelers coveted pre-draft, so they viewed this as a perfect opportunity.
3. What should Dolphins fans expect to see with Rudolph under
center vs. Ben Roethlisberger?
I know plenty of Steelers fans hope with Rudolph back the Steelers are going to take more shots downfield and play a more aggressive game plan. But I look for something similar to what we saw before his injury. Lots of short passes, and let guys like James Conner run after the catch. The Steelers are healthy this week, so I expect to see him spread the ball out among five or six targets.
4. Who has been Pittsburgh’s Most Valuable Player through the
first six games of the 2019 season?
Honestly, it has probably been rookie linebacker Devin Bush. He’s added a spark and a level of athleticism the defense hadn’t had since Ryan Shazier. There’s literally nothing he can’t do, and with six takeaways by himself so far this season, he’s been the biggest catalyst for this defensive improvement.
5-What is your prediction for the game?
The Steelers play well at home in prime time. Their two wins this year have been prime-time games and, late garbage touchdown by the Chargers aside, [they] have been routs. I look for the Steelers defense to come out strong and snuff out the Dolphins run game and force them to throw the football. James Conner has been playing well, and they will lean on him heavily. Pittsburgh wins this one going away. Steelers 35, Dolphins 17
