10 Steelers that can hand Philadelphia Eagles a third loss in 2020
8. player. 55. . . . Cameron Heyward, defensive tackle
The Steelers D-Line presents matchup problems for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Defensive tackle Cameron Heyward is another of the Steelers’ defensive inemen that could give the Eagles trouble in Week 5. He’s registered 29 sacks, 179 total tackles, four forced fumbles, and a surprising 12 passes deflected form 2017 to 2019. This year, he has already has registered six combined tackles, one batted pass, and half a sack.
Although Heyward’s sack totals are relatively low, that’s expected from the defensive tackle position. His job is not to generate pass rush (that’s a plus). Rather, his responsibility is collapsing the pocket and letting his teammates get to the quarterback. It will be interesting to see how the Eagles try to stop him.
. . . James Conner, running back. 7. player. 55
Originally a backup, James Conner quickly rose on the dept chart when running back Le’Veon Bell decided to sit for the 2018 season. After failing to come to terms on a new deal, Bell left, and Conner hasn’t looked back. In 2018, he tallied 215 carries for 973 yards and 12 touchdowns. He didn’t break the 1,000-yard barrier, the Steelers felt comfortable enough with him at running back that decided to let Bell test free agency.
Conner missed some time in 2019 thanks to injury, but he’s now healthy and averaging 5.6 yards per rush. So far, he’s carried the rock 40 times for 224 yards for two touchdowns, and he seems poised to have the best year of his career in 2020.