On Saturday night, the Pittsburgh Steelers announced that defensive coordinator Keith Butler would not be available to coach this week against the Baltimore Ravens. Butler remains on the Reserve/COVID-19 list.
With Butler unavailable, the team says it will be some combination of head coach Mike Tomlin and senior defensive assistant Teryl Austin handling the defensive playcalling duties.
Whoever is calling the defense, they should understand how high the stakes are. They also understand who strong the Ravens are at running the football and it has to be their top priority.
Will we see any big changes in the playcalling on Sunday with Butler at home? My gut says no. I seriously question just how much control Butler has over the defense even when he’s there so other than perhaps a more aggressive approach, I don’t expect to see much difference. If you do, let us know in the comments below.
#Steelers DC Keith Butler will not coach tomorrow vs. the Ravens due to COVID-19 protocols. His duties will be handled by Mike Tomlin and Senior Defensive Asst/Secondary Coach Teryl Austin, per @SteelersPRBurt
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) January 8, 2022
