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Brian Batko's Steelers chat: 08.07.23
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Brian Batko
12:51
Definitely looks capable of it. It's an interesting situation because Cole Holcomb was signed to be just that and he's been in the fold since March. But Kwon Alexander has been just as impressive, at least when it comes to stopping the run. Holcomb might be better in coverage, though.
MLJ
12:52
We've made some great moves in the D this year. Has the potential for those inexplicable breakdowns been alleviated? What was the cause? Bad personnel? Bad scheme? Product of modern offenses being so good?
Brian Batko
12:55
I think so, but I also went into last season thinking the defense would be a top-5 or even top-3 unit. That's my bad for having too much faith in Ahkello Witherspoon and some of the depth pieces. The issues last season were part personnel and part running into a couple buzz saws. Oh, and that TJ Watt injury didn't help either.
schnail
12:55
We hear a lot about players making the roster because they "can play special teams", and we know that is true of some players from regular-season experience, but how can you get a good feel for that in camp?  Is much camp time spent in full simulation of punts, kicks, and field goals?
Brian Batko
12:57
They don't really line up in a full formation for most special teams situations, but they do practice field goals and punts with all 11 on offense. Other drills help simulate the responsibilities in coverage/return game. It'll ultimately come down to how the ST candidates look in preseason action, though.
Ed in Carrick
12:57
How many WR will the team carry?  Who does it look like now?
Brian Batko
12:58
Between 5 and 7, most likely 6. I've got Johnson, Pickens, Robinson, Austin, Boykin and Olszewski as of now, but Cody White might mess around and make this team. He's been good.
LYM
12:59
Bats thank you for the great work, time and chat.  Is this defense better equipped to deal with injuries than last year’s defense? Also, have you seen improvement in the ILB’s and the lying now that they’ve had a week of pads compared to last year.
Brian Batko
1:01
I think it is. Position-by-position, I'd say the DL is significantly deeper despite losing Chris Wormley and Tyson Alualu. Markus Golden/Nick Herbig are an upgrade over Malik Reed as OLB3. Holcomb/Roberts/Alexander should be an improvement from Jack/Bush/Spillane.
Bens boot
1:02
im in the basement getting dusty  Can we protect Kenny well enough that ill never be used again
Brian Batko
1:02
Selfishly, I hope so, Mr. Boot. Getting information from Mike Tomlin on injuries is not one of the more rewarding parts of the job.
1:03
OK, now that we're fielding questions from inanimate objects, it's probably time to wrap it up. Thanks for chatting, and we'll see you next week with a preseason game to discuss.
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