Steelers' strong late-game defense challenges Patrick Graham's approach
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 13, 2026, 7:39 PM
Last updated Jul 13, 2026
The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense has maintained a strong late-game performance, protecting 39 of 44 fourth-quarter leads over the last four seasons. New defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, who previously struggled with late-game lead protection, faces the task of improving on a lower success rate from his tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders. The Steelers have a historical prevalence for controlling games in the final quarter, a philosophy embedded in their football identity. Graham's ability to adapt his strategies to fit the Steelers' culture will be critical in his first year.
- •Steelers protected 88.6% of fourth-quarter leads in past four seasons.
- •Graham's defenses have struggled, with only a 67.9% protection rate.
- •Steelers have a historical success in closing out games under Mike Tomlin.
- •Graham needs to modernize the defense while maintaining traditional grit.
- 7:39 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers' 4th-Quarter Strength Poses Big Challenge for Patrick Graham
"New Steelers DC Patrick Graham will face a dominant franchise metric that presents a major tactical hurdle.
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