Our last film room session focused on the big plays surrendered by the Steelers' defense that allowed the Cowboys to score four touchdowns without ever getting inside the 15-yard line.
While watching the defense give up 35 points and the decisive touchdown in the final minute, a very reasonable immediate reaction would be to think that the entire defensive plan should be thrown away. But when you look at the plan and how Keith Butler approached the Cowboys, you can see it was sound in most ways except for the big plays surrendered.
This study will go specifically into how the Steelers' defense performed against the Cowboys' offense on third down, so remember each play you see below will be on third down. Overall, the Cowboys' offense went 7 of 13 on third down.
THIRD-AND-SHORT FOR LINEBACKERS
To win on third down, it helps to win on second and first down, as well. When a defense can force third-and-5 or longer, it normally forces the offense to throw. The defense doesn't have to guess much. And against the Cowboys, they live for the third-and-short situations in which their excellent offensive line can power through.
Watch below as the Cowboys use an option play to gain a first down:
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