The Pittsburgh Steelers went into their matchup against the Miami Dolphins without one of their key defensive anchors, rookie defensive tackle Derrick Harmon. On paper, that looked like a serious problem-especially with the Dolphins rolling out De’Von Achane, one of the league’s most explosive backs.
But Pittsburgh didn’t flinch. They held Achane to just 60 yards on the ground, showing the kind of discipline and gap integrity that’s become a calling card for this defense.
Now comes a different kind of test. In Week 16, the Steelers head to Detroit to face a Lions offense that’s been firing on all cylinders-and at the center of it all is Jahmyr Gibbs.
The second-year back is putting together a standout season, racking up nearly 1,600 total yards and finding the end zone 16 times. He’s a nightmare in space, a threat as both a runner and receiver, and the kind of player who can flip a game in one snap.
But there’s good news for Pittsburgh: head coach Mike Tomlin said this week that Harmon is expected to return to the lineup. That’s a big deal.
Harmon’s rookie season has been nothing short of impressive. According to Next Gen Stats, he’s already logged 17 run stuffs-a stat that doesn’t just reflect tackles, but tackles that shut down a run before it even gets going.
He’s been a force in the middle, consistently blowing up plays and anchoring a front that thrives on physicality.
Gibbs is the kind of player you don’t really stop-you try to slow him down, limit the damage, and force the Lions into less comfortable situations. Having Harmon back in the fold gives the Steelers a much better shot at doing just that. His presence allows the linebackers behind him to flow more freely, and it forces opposing offenses to think twice about running up the gut.
This Week 16 clash isn’t just a measuring stick for the Steelers’ playoff hopes-it’s a chance to see how this defense stacks up against one of the most dynamic playmakers in the league. If Harmon can help bottle up Gibbs the way Pittsburgh bottled up Achane, the Steelers might just be able to grind out another gritty, statement-making win.