As the Pittsburgh Steelers advance into their preseason schedule, offensive struggles have come to the forefront. Through two preseason games, the offensive unit has managed to put just 15 points on the board, underscoring a significant issue.
The Steelers' latest outing, a 9-3 defeat on Saturday night, highlighted these challenges in stark terms. A mere three of the total 15 points scored over the two games were recorded with Justin Fields under center. Fields and his fellow quarterbacks have faced relentless pressure, and persistent lack of pass protection has stymied any chance to establish a consistent offensive rhythm.
Russell Wilson's performance against the Buffalo Bills illustrated this issue vividly. Despite being on the field for five series, Wilson was unable to lead a single scoring drive, largely due to the punishing pressure he faced, resulting in three sacks. Head coach Mike Tomlin hasn't minced words regarding the impact of inadequate pass protection. "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 reflected. "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."
Indeed, the first few series of the game set a tone the Steelers struggled to shake, and Greg Rousseau of the Bills capitalized on this instability. Rousseau exploited the inexperience of Broderick Jones, who had been moved to right tackle for the game, adding to the hurdles the Steelers' offense had to clear. Even Fields wasn't immune to the onslaught, as he endured a sack.
Adding to the concerning picture, the Steelers are grappling with injuries on their offensive line. Veteran center/guard Nate Herbig is potentially out for the season due to a torn rotator cuff, and rookie first-round pick Troy Fautanu is also currently sidelined with an injury. These absences further complicate the already challenging task of solidifying the pass protection that Tomlin stresses is necessary.
Tomlin candidly addressed the team about the issue, emphasizing the critical 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 stated. "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 preseason continues, the Steelers are gearing up for their finale against the Detroit Lions. Tomlin will be paying close attention to the offensive line's performance as he decides which quarterback will lead the team in Pittsburgh's final preseason game. The offensive line’s ability to protect the quarterback will be pivotal, not only for the final preseason game but as the team looks ahead to the regular season.
The Steelers' coaching staff and fans alike hope to see marked improvement, understanding the critical nature of establishing a strong offensive front. The next game will be a crucial evaluation, offering one last chance to solidify strategies and personnel before the demands of the regular season commence.