As the Pittsburgh Steelers advance through their preseason schedule, their offensive performance has come under scrutiny. In two preseason matchups, the Steelers' offense has managed to put up just 15 points, a figure that starkly highlights their struggles on that side of the ball.
Offensive Struggles Evident
The 9-3 defeat suffered by the Steelers on Saturday night was emblematic of their ongoing challenges. Of the 15 points scored in the preseason, only three were achieved while Justin Fields was on the field. This was largely due to a persistent lack of pass protection, leaving Fields unable to establish a consistent offensive rhythm.
Further compounding the Steelers' woes, Russell Wilson saw action across five series against the Buffalo Bills but was unable to orchestrate a single scoring drive during his time on the field. Wilson faced significant pressure throughout the game, being sacked three times, which underscores the recurring issue of inadequate pass protection.
Tomlin Addresses Issues
Head coach Mike Tomlin did not mince words in addressing the offensive line's shortcomings. "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. "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."
The offensive struggles were particularly evident in the early part of the game. "We've got to do a better job in pass protection than we did—not only in possession downs but just in general," Tomlin asserted. "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."
Injuries and Adjustments
The offensive line has not only been battling performance issues but also injuries. Veteran center/guard Nate Herbig is potentially sidelined for the season due to a torn rotator, and rookie first-round pick Troy Fautanu is currently dealing with an injury as well. This has forced adjustments along the line, including moving Broderick Jones to right tackle, a position where he struggled against the Bills' Greg Rousseau.
Rousseau capitalized on Jones's inexperience, and the Bills' defense was able to constantly disrupt the Steelers' offensive plans. This was evident as Fields was sacked once during the game, further illustrating the challenges Pittsburgh's offensive line continues to face.
Looking Towards the Finale
With the preseason finale against the Detroit Lions approaching, all eyes will be on the Steelers' offensive line performance. Coach Tomlin will be closely monitoring the situation as he decides which quarterback will start in Pittsburgh's final preseason game. The upcoming matchup will be crucial for the Steelers to not only showcase improvements but also build momentum as they head into the regular season.
The Steelers' preseason journey has underscored the pressing need to address their offensive line issues. The focus now shifts to making the necessary adjustments and ensuring the team is better prepared for the challenges of the upcoming season.