As the Pittsburgh Steelers continue their preseason journey, offensive struggles have become increasingly apparent. The team has managed to score just 15 points over the course of two games, a worrying sign ahead of the regular season. Their 9-3 loss on Saturday night served to highlight these issues further.
Of the 15 points accumulated so far, only three came while Justin Fields was on the field. The persistent lack of pass protection has hindered any chance for Fields to establish a consistent offensive rhythm.
Struggles in the Trenches
Russell Wilson, during his five series against the Buffalo Bills, failed to orchestrate a single scoring drive. Wilson was sacked three times, a testament to the offensive line’s inability to provide adequate protection. Head coach Mike Tomlin noted the detrimental impact this had on the team’s performance. "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 remarked.
The lack of effective pass protection has become a recurring theme, with Tomlin pointing out, "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."
Emerging Issues on the Line
Greg Rousseau of the Bills took advantage of Broderick Jones’ inexperience after Jones was moved to the right tackle for the game. As a result, Justin Fields was sacked once, further complicating the Steelers’ offensive struggles. Adding to the woes, veteran center/guard Nate Herbig is potentially out for the season due to a torn rotator, and rookie first-round pick Troy Fautanu is currently sidelined with an injury.
A Coach's Concern
Tomlin emphasized the impact of inadequate pass protection. "We've got to do a better job in pass protection than we did -- not only in possession downs but just in general," he 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."
Preseason Finale Looms
As the Steelers head into their preseason finale against the Detroit Lions, Tomlin will be closely monitoring the offensive line performances. Their proficiency in protecting the quarterback may well determine which quarterback will get the start in Pittsburgh's final preseason game. The upcoming match provides one last opportunity for the team to address and rectify their shortcomings before the start of the regular season.
The Steelers’ journey through the preseason has been a period of scrutiny and evaluation. Under Tomlin’s watchful eye, the coming days will be crucial in shaping the team’s offensive line and, in turn, their chances for success in the regular season.