The Steelers have a long and bad history against Tom Brady, 2-8 record in his 10 starts, and there are several phases to the analytics of why this has been the case.
Brady is one of the most consistent quarterbacks of all time at making correct pre-snap reads, adjusting to zone defenses and taking what defenses present to him as opportunities. As such, his strengths have always played right at the weaknesses of the Steelers' defensive scheme since the opening of Heinz Field. The zone blitz relies upon its ability to rush the passer and the possibility of the quarterback being forced into a quick decision. That almost never happens with Brady and, as a result, the Steelers' strength become a liability.
So how can that change Sunday?
The answer has been seen before, though it's something the Steelers seldom do. Back in Ben Roethlisberger's rookie season of 2004, the defense switched up its style of coverage and, instead of playing soft zone schemes, it pressed the Patriots' receivers and challenged them with one-on-one man coverage. That took away Brady's reads and expectations of who would automatically be open. It forced him to go to second and third options.
That same formula worked for the Steelers' other victory against Brady in 2011, and it has shown the possibility for success even in losses. It does make for a huge challenge to a secondary that has not been all that reliable, but it might be the only chance the defense has to slow the Patriots' offense and keep the Steelers' offense and Landry Jones in the game.
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