Foxborough — The New England Patriots' defense, which struggled to force turnovers in their season opener, is emphasizing takeaway production ahead of their Sunday matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Despite a strong defensive effort in the 13-10 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, the Patriots failed to record a single takeaway, a difference that players say played a crucial role in the outcome. Cornerback Christian Gonzalez, who contributed two tackles and two passes defensed in the opener, highlighted the importance of forcing turnovers as a defensive priority moving forward.

“We either want to get the ball back to Drake [Maye] or let Marcus [Jones] go back there and catch the punt and do what he does back there,” Gonzalez said. “If you have more turnovers, you’re more likely to win a game. That’s what it comes down to. And that’s what we’ve got to do.”

The Patriots entered the season with a minus-3 turnover ratio after the first game, having surrendered three giveaways without a takeaway, underscoring the need to improve in that area. Head coach Mike Vrabel stressed the importance of aggressively pursuing the ball, particularly by pressuring the quarterback and forcing mishandling or errant throws.

“The easiest target is the quarterback, so you have to force the quarterback into mistakes. You have to hit it out of his hands,” Vrabel said. “We had a couple opportunities against Seattle, but again, you’ve got to knock it out of his hands. Make it a concerted effort, and we do it every single day.”

On Sunday, the Patriots will face Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, a veteran player known for his talent and willingness to take risks in the passing game. Gonzalez described Rodgers as a “Hall of Fame” caliber athlete and acknowledged the challenge that Rodgers and the Steelers’ offensive weapons, including wide receiver DK Metcalf, present.

Veteran safety Kevin Byard, ranked second among active players in career interceptions, echoed the urgency of disrupting Rodgers’ rhythm. Byard noted Rodgers’ quick release and emphasized the need to force him out of his comfort zone to generate turnovers.

“Try to make sure we’re forcing him off his spot, and try to force him to throw us an interception,” Byard said. “He gets the ball out really fast... we have to make sure we’re swarming to the ball.”

The Patriots face mounting pressure to secure a win as an 0-2 start historically diminishes playoff chances, with teams beginning the season with two losses advancing only about 14 percent of the time since 2016. Gonzalez said the defensive backs are mentally prepared for the challenge, embracing the intensity of their role.

“To play defensive back, you have to be a little crazy in the head,” he said. “You invite it. You enjoy it. It’s all about how you respond.”

As the team prepares to take the field against the Steelers, communication and positioning will be critical to improving renewal in the takeaway department. Gonzalez remains confident the defense can rebound quickly.

“It just comes down to communication,” he said. “Us getting us in the right spot, and then, capitalizing and making the play.”