The Pittsburgh Steelers are 6-3 and in great position to earn a playoff spot.
Critics are asking, “How is this even possible?” The Steelers have given up more points (182) than they’ve scored (156). They rank 28th in the NFL in yards per game on offense, and coincidentally rank 28th in yards allowed.
Teams like that aren’t usually 6-3, and many fans think the Steelers are bound to fade down the stretch. Even LeBron James took a shot at Pittsburgh, noting the Steelers had given up more yardage than their opponents each week.
Steelers star defensive tackle Cameron Heyward had a message for James and other critics on his latest ‘Not Just Football’ podcast.
“I love LeBron and I love that he plays basketball well … but man, stay away from football my guy,” Heyward said (via The Athletic).
But James isn’t the only one pointing out the Steelers’ perceived faults.
“For us, we don’t really give a damn,” Heyward said. “6-3 is 6-3. … It doesn’t matter, you play football to win the game.”
In short, Heyward, a three-time All-Pro, doesn’t care what critics think. He says the team’s record speaks for itself.
“Who are they judging?” Heyward said. “They’re not in this. Smoke and mirrors? Screw you. We worked too hard for this. These guys dedicate their lives. We try to be a good defense. Smoke and mirrors, I think that’s a cloud of smoke.”