Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster loves the idea of standing against an opponent in crunch time. More specifically, the former USC standout loves the idea of making big plays for his team in third down scenarios.
As part of a recent session of media availability, Smith-Schuster noted that he embraces these pressurized moments. In fact, he says he “prays” the ball comes his way.
“Third down gets you paid,” Smith-Schuster said, via Brooke Pryor in ESPN. “As far as you make plays on third down, you move the sticks, you give your offense another chance to get another three set of downs to make plays and to drive to the end zone. On third down, although we don't want to be in that situation where it's third-and-long or third-and-10, third-and-5, I love and I embrace those parts.
“I'm hoping the ball comes my way, I'm praying the ball comes my way. Just because I want to make a play.”
JuJu has been a solid option for Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger this season. In his nine games played, Smith-Schuster has racked up 516 receiving yards on 54 catches to go with five touchdowns.
Smith-Schuster and the Steelers are off to a historic start to this season. For the first time in the team's storied history, Pittsburgh has recorded a perfect 9-0 record through their first nine games.
The Steelers will look to continue their march of perfection on Nov. 22, when they'll travel to Jacksonville for a matchup against the Jaguars. Kickoff is set for 1:00 p.m. ET, with CBS having live broadcast coverage.
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