Pittsburgh Steelers Grapple with Offensive Challenges in Preseason
The Pittsburgh Steelers are encountering significant struggles on the offensive front as they move through their preseason schedule. Over two games, the offense has managed to muster only 15 points, a concerning figure for a team with high aspirations this season. This situation was most glaring in their recent 9-3 loss on Saturday night, which highlighted several critical areas of concern.
A deeper dive into the numbers reveals that of the 15 points scored, only three came while Justin Fields was on the field. A consistent theme has been the lack of pass protection, a factor that has severely hindered Fields' ability to find a rhythm and lead a successful offensive drive. Reflecting on the performance, head coach Mike Tomlin said, "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." Indeed, the first three series of the game underscored this as they ended in three-and-outs, denying the Steelers any opportunity to build offensive momentum.
The offensive line's frailty was further exposed by the Buffalo Bills' defense. Russell Wilson, over five series, failed to orchestrate a single scoring drive and was sacked three times. Greg Rousseau from the Bills exploited the inexperience of Broderick Jones, who was moved to right tackle for this game. Commenting on the team’s protection issues, Tomlin noted, "We've got to do a better job in pass protection than we did -- not only in possession downs but just in general." These struggles in pass protection contributed heavily to Wilson's inability to generate offensive success. Moreover, Justin Fields took a hit as well, sacked once during his stint on the field.
The Steelers are also grappling with injuries that are exacerbating their offensive line's issues. Veteran center/guard Nate Herbig is potentially out for the entire season due to a torn rotator. Additionally, rookie first-round pick Troy Fautanu is sidelined with an injury, adding to the team’s woes. Reflecting on the performance, Tomlin was candid, "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."
As the Steelers approach their preseason finale against the Detroit Lions, all eyes will be on the offensive line. Coach Tomlin will be closely monitoring their performance, particularly in pass protection, as he assesses which quarterback will start in Pittsburgh's final preseason game. With the regular season fast approaching, the Steelers must address these pressing issues to avoid carrying these struggles over into games that matter.