SteelersGab POW: Steelers’ Ryan Shazier In The Center Of Positive Attention

 

Rookie linebacker Ryan Shazier has done many things well so far in training camp. The question remaining was could he get it done on the field. Sunday was just one game, but it was impressive. With his performance, Ryan Shazier, without a doubt is the SteelersGab Player of the Week.

So far Shazier has won many over with his physical skills. With his 4.4 speed, to covering wide receiver Antonio Brown in practice, to showing physical strength to go up against center Maurkice Pouncey; Shazier has shown he has the ability to make splash plays. Against the Buffalo Bills Shazier recorded 11 total tackles and an interception he returned for 20 yards. Shazier showed he has sideline to sideline ability defending against the run. Shazier also showed his ability to keep himself off blockers and staying disciplined in his gap assignments. Shazier, going forward, will need to continue his skills against familiar teams such as the Baltimore Ravens, New England Patriots, Cleveland Browns, etc.

Shazier showed, against the Buffalo Bills his ability to play well on special teams, also.  Potential starters are not ideal to use on special teams, mainly because it increases the risk of injury and fatigue. With Shazier playing special teams it shows an unselfish attitude.

With the performance, Shazier displayed against the Buffalo Bills it’s likely Shazier will be given more chances to get after the quarterback. Shazier will be watched more closely by opposing teams as he has put the NFL on notice with his performance.

This coming Thursday, against the Philadelphia Eagles, Shazier will most likely play the first half. If he has a similar performance, he could very likely be Player of the Week again.