The Colts have used a lot more man-to-man coverages in the last few weeks. They’ll need to go back to zone coverages more against Pittsburgh.
Zone coverage is the backbone of this Colts defense. They run a base zone coverage in a Tampa 2 setting. But they have been running more man-to-man coverages for their recent opponents. They will need to utilize their base defense more this week.
The reason for that is Mason Rudolph. He has issues diagnosing zone coverages over the middle as fast as he needs to. He typically throws the ball along the sidelines more. Playing more zone slows down his reads and gives the defensive line a better chance to sack him.
Playing more zone will also give young Rock Ya-Sin a better chance to succeed. He had massive issues last week playing in man coverage. Zone will make him feel more comfortable and should help him improve his technique. They need him to play well.
More zone also gives the Colts a better chance to force turnovers. The defense hasn’t done a great job at doing that so far. But now that they have their ball-hawking safety Malik Hooker back from injury, they have a better chance at getting some interceptions.
The defense as a whole shouldn’t have too many issues shutting down this Steelers offense. But zone coverage gives them the best chance to succeed and come out with a win. Getting pressure on Rudolph will also help the coverage schemes as well. The defense should play well.