As the Pittsburgh Steelers maneuver through their preseason slate, the offensive struggles are becoming increasingly prominent. Across two preseason contests, the Steelers' offense has mustered just 15 points, a statistic that underscores the team’s difficulties in moving the ball and finding the end zone.
In their recent 9-3 defeat, these challenges were brightly illuminated. Notably, of the 15 points scored over two games, only three were achieved with Justin Fields playing quarterback. This statistic speaks volumes about the issues plaguing the team, primarily the problematic pass protection that has kept Fields from establishing any consistent rhythm in the offense.
The Offensive Struggles
Russell Wilson, who took the field for five series against the Buffalo Bills, was similarly unable to spearhead a single scoring drive. A pervasive lack of solid pass protection was evident as Wilson was sacked three times during the game. Steelers' head coach Mike Tomlin has been vocal about these issues.
"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 said, emphasizing the disruption caused by poor protection and ineffective play. "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."
Adding to the woes, Greg Rousseau from the Bills took full advantage of Broderick Jones’ inexperience after Jones was shifted to right tackle for the game. Justin Fields, too, was not spared, facing the brunt of the onslaught which saw him being sacked once.
Injury Setbacks
Compounding the Steelers' problems, veteran center/guard Nate Herbig has been potentially ruled out for the season following a torn rotator, while rookie first-round pick Troy Fautanu is also sidelined with an injury. These absences are notable blows, stretching the team’s depth and adaptability in crucial positions.
Tomlin has not minced words regarding the urgent need for improvement. "We've got to do a better job in pass protection than we did -- not only in possession downs but just in general," he stressed, continuing his candor about the team's shortcomings. "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 Looms
With the preseason finale against the Detroit Lions on the horizon, all eyes will be on the Steelers’ offensive line. Tomlin faces the daunting task of evaluating the current performances to determine who will start at quarterback for Pittsburgh’s final preseason game. Consistency in the offensive line’s performance will be key for anyone looking to solidify their spot on the roster.
The onus is on the players and coaching staff to address these issues and make necessary adjustments. The offensive line, in particular, will need to protect their quarterbacks better to give them the time and opportunity to find a rhythm and execute plays effectively.
As the Steelers prepare for the regular season, the lessons learned from these preseason games will be crucial. The capacity to overcome and resolve the apparent deficiencies will play a significant role in shaping the team's success for the coming season.