The Pittsburgh Steelers put together their best outing of the 2025 campaign in Week 9 when they handed the Indianapolis Colts a 27-20 defeat. The Steelers’ defense starred in this one, as they forced a Colts team that had only lost one game before this matchup into committing six turnovers. While several players stood out, linebacker Alex Highsmith had the best day of the bunch.
Thanks in part to some injury issues, this had been a bit of a quiet campaign for Highsmith. That changed in a big way against Indianapolis, as he racked up four tackles (three of which when for a loss), two sacks, one pass deflection and one fumble forced. Highsmith was a menace against Indy, and his strong play earned him the AFC Defensive Player of the Week Award.
Pittsburgh’s defense hasn’t exactly managed to meet expectations so far this season, but the unit showed signs of life against a historically efficient offense in Week 9. If Highsmith and the rest of his teammates can continue to play like they did in this one, the Steelers’ hopes of going on a deep playoff run could come true.
For now, Pittsburgh is focusing on holding onto its lead atop the AFC North. Things aren’t getting any easier for the team, though, as they have another tough matchup in Week 10 against the Los Angeles Chargers. With this game scheduled for Sunday Night Football, kickoff will take place at 8:20 p.m. ET.
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