No big plays: Jumbled Steelers secondary searching for consistency amid sea of new faces

New York Jets running back Chris Ivory (33) jumps over Pittsburgh Steelers' William Gay (22) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 9, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun) (The Associated Press)

New York Jets tight end Jace Amaro (88) catches a pass for a touchdown in front of Pittsburgh Steelers' Mike Mitchell (23) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 9, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun) (The Associated Press)

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Steelers are hoping for more consistent play out of their secondary heading into Monday night's game at Tennessee.

The Steelers are in the bottom half of the league in interceptions and opponent's quarterback rating and 15th in yards passing allowed. Injuries to starters Ike Taylor and Troy Polamalu haven't helped. Pittsburgh has started five different defensive back combinations in 10 games.

The Steelers (6-4) gave up just one big play in the passing game last week against the Jets, but it was enough to help lift New York to a stunning upset.

Coach Mike Tomlin says execution needs to improve heading into Monday night's game against Tennessee (2-7). The Titans will start rookie Zach Mettenberger under center. Pittsburgh is 18-2 in its last 20 games against first-year quarterbacks.

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