The Pittsburgh Steelers defense understands what has to happen this week to beat the New York Giants. The entire Giants offense revolves around their franchise running back, Saquon Barkley. Pittsburgh knows this as well and they are prepared to focus a great deal of energy to slowing him down.
When outside linebacker T.J. Watt spoke to the media on Friday he acknowledged Barkley’s talent and also made sure everyone understands stopping him is job one.
Saquon is a very well-rounded back. I played against him in college when he was at Penn State. He’s a specimen, very big. He can do everything out of the backfield. That’s why, first and foremost, we have to smash the run.
Barkley has topped 1,000 rushing yards in each of his first two seasons in the NFL. Barkley missed three games last season with an ankle injury but is coming into this season 100 percent.
Last season the Steelers ranked No. 14 in rushing yards allowed and were No. 27 in rushing attempts against. The Steelers should be ready to see a heavy dose of Barkley this Monday night.
