FOXBORO — Don’t blame the Patriots’ defense for Sunday’s loss to the Steelers.

After allowing two quick touchdowns to begin the game, the defense kept the Patriots in the game for the remaining 43 minutes of the contest.

Credit coaches for identifying two issues early in the game by benching linebacker Christian Elliss and cornerback Alex Austin after the Steelers’ initial scoring drives.

Elliss, whose tackling issues continued from last week’s win over the Dolphins, was replaced by veteran linebacker Jack Gibbens.

“Anytime I got an opportunity to help the team, I’m gonna do it,” Gibbens said after the game. Any chance I get to get on the field, excited about it.”

Gibbens finished the game with one tackle while playing next to linebacker Robert Spillane on early downs. Marte Mapu remained the Patriots’ dime linebacker after Elliss was benched.

Austin, who had a tough game in Week 2, as well, was penalized for defensive pass interference and defensive holding in the first two drives of the game. He was replaced by cornerback Charles Woods, who was claimed off waivers from the Rams at cutdowns.

Woods also registered one tackle.

“It was exciting, just being ready when the opportunity got called,” Woods said. “So, it was very exciting. Go out there and play with the guys. We just got to execute better fundamentals and technique and obviously get a win.”

The unit didn’t allow another first down for five straight drives. They forced four straight three-and-outs and four punts with an interception but did allow a late score after the offense had turned over the ball for the fifth time. The offense had one last chance to tie the game but turned the ball over on downs to close out the contest.