Alex Highsmith’s box scores this season don’t typically stand out for an outside linebacker. However, numbers can be deceiving. In Thursday’s entry in the official Steelers Week 10 Blog, they shared what defensive coordinator Patrick Graham had to say about Highsmith’s impact on the team. He revealed why the 29-year-old is an important member of the Steelers defense.
This season, the former Charlotte 49ers standout has amassed 18 total tackles, eight solo, and five tackles for loss. He has also recorded 3.5 sacks and one pass defense. While the numbers are solid, they’re not headline-worthy. According to Graham, the Steelers also track things that aren’t on the stat sheet. He explained, “The numbers or whatever stats are on the sheet don’t show up; however, in terms of caused penalties, how he’s helping with the coordination of the rush, what he’s done in terms of setting hard, short edges in the run game, we keep track of that. I hope he appreciates our stat list.”
In Week eight's Steelers-Browns game, Highsmith recorded five total tackles, one solo, and half a sack. According to Steelers Depot, the 29-year-old had a game-high five pressures. His efforts contributed to Pittsburgh’s 27-6 victory. Graham said, “You watched the game. He played with his hair on fire, but I think he’s been like that. I can tell you this: being around Alex, in terms of how he goes about his business day to day, I’ll speak personally about how he’s influenced me from a personal standpoint. It’s been a pleasure to be around him.”
Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy and the rest of the coaching staff are placing major emphasis on versatility. Graham highlighted Highsmith’s versatility, saying, “Then when you watch him on the field in terms of how he plays, how hard he plays, what we ask him to do, he’s so disciplined. We asked him to set the edge. We asked him to drop. We asked him to play the run. We ask him to pass rush. All those things that he does out there at a high level.”
The veteran outside linebacker's performance is one reason Pittsburgh’s defense is so impressive this season. They’re ranked seventh in total defense. The Steelers are tied for fourth in points allowed. They’re third in rushing yards allowed and third in red zone defense. The Steelers are traveling to Cincinnati for a primetime game on Sunday. Both teams are currently sitting 6-2. The winner will be in first place in AFC North. The Bengals are ranked second in points per game. Highsmith’s contributions, along with the rest of the Steelers defense, will be crucial to the game's outcome.
