A defensive tackle's impact isn't always reflected on the stat sheet, especially when facing a quick-release quarterback like Cincinnati Bengals Joe Burrow. Going into halftime without a single tackle during the Pittsburgh Steelers 30-27 victory, second-year defensive tackle Derrick Harmon found himself battling mental frustration.
Appearing on teammate Cameron Heyward’s podcast, “Not Just Football with Cam Heyward,” Harmon opened up about how mid-game sideline support from defensive teammate Keeanu Benton helped him reset his focus before making the biggest play of the game.
"I remember just going on the sideline talking to Keeanu like, 'Bro, like I got to get some.' I think it was going to halftime. I had no tackle, no nothing," Harmon revealed.
"Like, dude, like he just getting the ball out quick. I can't really get in no rhythm. I remember him just telling me like don't let that discourage you and just like stay down and just keep going, keep going."
Benton’s advice to remain patient proved decisive during the fourth quarter's final minute. As Cincinnati attempted a drive late in the game, Harmon noticed a subtle pre-snap tell from the offensive line.
"I come in the game and I of course I knew was pass. I seen that left tackle, his foot all the way back and that was one of the moments where I really just blacked out," Harmon recalled. "I had to black out for a quick second and made that play."
Harmon broke through the line, strip-sacking Burrow to force a fumble recovered by Sebastian Joseph-Day to lock up the critical divisional victory. The sequence serves as a powerful example of peer-to-peer leadership and how staying locked into detail turns quiet games into career-defining moments.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers Derrick Harmon reveals Keeanu Benton advice before sack
