Steelers Sack Chargers QB Justin Herbert 5 Times

Pittsburgh's defense pressured the Chargers star quarterback throughout the game.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 8:23am

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In a Week 10 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, the Pittsburgh Steelers' defense sacked quarterback Justin Herbert 5 times. Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton, Alex Highsmith, and T.J. Watt all recorded sacks as the Steelers' pass rush overwhelmed the Chargers' offensive line. Despite the Steelers' struggles on offense, their defensive front was able to consistently disrupt Herbert and the Chargers' passing attack.

Why it matters

The Steelers' ability to generate pressure on the quarterback has been a key part of their defensive identity in recent seasons. This game highlighted the team's depth and talent along the defensive line, as multiple players were able to get to the quarterback. While the Steelers ultimately lost the game, their defensive performance provided a bright spot and showed their potential to be an elite unit.

The details

The Steelers' first sack came in the second quarter when linebacker Nick Herbig beat a block to take down Herbert. Defensive lineman Keeanu Benton also recorded a sack later in the quarter. Edge rusher Alex Highsmith continued his strong season, registering two sacks in the game, while fellow edge rusher T.J. Watt added one of his own despite facing consistent double teams from the Chargers' offensive line.

  • The Steelers' first sack occurred in the second quarter.
  • Keeanu Benton recorded his sack later in the second quarter.
  • Alex Highsmith registered two sacks in the game.
  • T.J. Watt added one sack despite facing extra attention from the Chargers' offense.

The players

Nick Herbig

A linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers who recorded one of the team's five sacks against the Chargers.

Keeanu Benton

A defensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers who recorded one of the team's five sacks against the Chargers.

Alex Highsmith

An edge rusher for the Pittsburgh Steelers who recorded two of the team's five sacks against the Chargers, continuing his strong season.

T.J. Watt

An edge rusher for the Pittsburgh Steelers who recorded one of the team's five sacks against the Chargers despite facing consistent double teams from the Chargers' offensive line.

Justin Herbert

The quarterback for the Los Angeles Chargers who was sacked five times by the Steelers' defense.

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The takeaway

The Steelers' dominant pass rush performance against the Chargers, with five sacks from multiple defenders, showcased the team's defensive depth and ability to pressure the quarterback. While the Steelers ultimately lost the game, this defensive effort provided a bright spot and demonstrated the potential of their defensive unit to be an elite force in the NFL.