The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the midst of yet another late-season struggle. They’ve lost their last three games by a combined 50 points, and each of those losses have been by at least 14 points. This has led to several players speaking out in frustration about miscommunications defensively and hinting that someone isn’t doing their job and ruining what the rest of the unit is doing.

Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin was asked about the frustration and the speaking out, to which he supported his players for getting things off their chest.

“I’d rather them be emotional than not give a sh*t,” Austin said. “Our guys give a sh*t. I like having guys that give a sh*t.”

Amid all the communication issues, Teryl Austin says it's a good thing there's so much venting.

“I'd rather them be emotional than not give a shit. Our guys give a shit. I like having guys that give a shit… guys are just frustrated.”

— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) January 1, 2025

The Steelers simply need to win on Saturday. Limping into the playoffs losers of four straight after a 10-3 start would be just another example of the Steelers collapsing down the stretch like they’ve done so many times over the last decade. If the defense can make the Bengals’ offense struggle, Pittsburgh can get to 11-6.