The Pittsburgh Steelers' preseason challenges continue, as glaring issues on the offense have left fans and analysts alike concerned about the team’s performance. Over two preseason games, the Steelers have managed to put up a meager 15 points, shedding light on some urgent inefficiencies.
Struggles on Offense
During their recent 9-3 loss on Saturday night, the offensive unit's shortcomings were particularly stark. The struggle was not just about scoring but also maintaining any sort of consistent offensive rhythm. Out of the 15 points scored in the preseason, only three came with Justin Fields, the key offensive component, on the field. His chances to shine were repeatedly dashed by persistent pass protection issues.
Protection Concerns
Poor pass protection proved to be the Achilles' heel for the Steelers. Fields was unable to find his footing, quite literally, on the field. He was sacked once during the game, while Broncos' quarterback Russell Wilson similarly found himself floundering. Over the span of five series against the Buffalo Bills, Wilson failed to orchestrate even a single scoring drive and was sacked three times, illustrating a universal problem with the offensive line.
Head Coach Mike Tomlin did not mince words when addressing the inefficiencies. "It's somewhat of an incomplete study because you just don't get a chance to see them operate or us operate or us establish rhythm and personality when you're not winning possession downs," Tomlin stated.
Exploited Weaknesses
The first three series of the game were abysmal for the Steelers, ending in three-and-outs. This prevented the team from establishing any offensive rhythm. "And we weren't. The first three or so series of the game, it was three and out, and you're not going to get an opportunity to establish rhythm or play the way you'd like as an individual or a collective," Tomlin admitted.
Greg Rousseau from the Bills capitalized on this weakness, exploiting the inexperience of Broderick Jones, who had been moved to right tackle for the game. The mismatch left Jones struggling and gave Rousseau free rein to disrupt the Steelers' plays.
Injuries and Their Impact
The Steelers' woes are compounded by significant injuries along the offensive line. Veteran center/guard Nate Herbig potentially faces the season on the sidelines due to a torn rotator, while rookie first-round pick Troy Fautanu is also currently sidelined. These absences have left gaping holes in the line, contributing further to the lack of stability and protection for their quarterbacks.
Tomlin was openly critical of the team's pass protection efforts. "We've got to do a better job in pass protection than we did -- not only in possession downs but just in general," Tomlin emphasized. "I was really upfront with the group about it in that regard, that can't be a problem for us. We've got to be better than we were tonight in that area."
Preseason Finale
Looking ahead, the Steelers have one more chance to iron out these issues in their preseason finale against the Detroit Lions. The performance of the offensive line will be under intense scrutiny as Tomlin decides who will start at the quarterback position. With the regular season looming, the next game presents a crucial opportunity for the Steelers to address their glaring issues and build some much-needed momentum.
As the preseason concludes, the Pittsburgh Steelers face an uphill battle. Their recent performances have highlighted significant areas that need improvement. The pressure is now on Tomlin and his coaching staff to find solutions and ensure their team is ready for the challenges of the regular season.