New Era in Pittsburgh: Arthur Smith Takes Helm as Offensive Coordinator
As the Pittsburgh Steelers usher in a new season, eyes are squarely on their newly appointed offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith. The early-stage performances during the exhibition games have left much to be desired, with losses to both Houston and Buffalo raising questions about the team's readiness heading into the regular season. However, history suggests that Smith might just be what the doctor ordered for the Steelers.
In their preseason struggles, Pittsburgh's offensive line play has been less than stellar. Multiple pre-snap penalties and a consistent failure to convert on crucial possession downs have marked the exhibition matches. Such issues are not new to Smith, who previously turned around a sluggish offense with the Tennessee Titans. In 2019, his Titans squad managed only 7 points throughout three preseason games but then roared back with a 43-point explosion in Week 1. That year, Smith's offense ranked 10th in the NFL in scoring, with Derrick Henry claiming his first of consecutive rushing titles. This precedent offers a sliver of hope for a Steelers fanbase eager for a turnaround.
Quarterback Conundrum
One of the more contentious points of debate revolves around the quarterback position. Currently, Zach Wilson sits atop the depth chart, a decision that has left many pondering the fate of Justin Fields. Wilson's performance against Buffalo saw him completing 8 out of 10 passes for 47 yards, but he was also sacked three times and failed to lead the team to a single score during his stint on the field. Fields has not fared much better throughout the preseason, and the pressure is mounting on Head Coach Mike Tomlin, who has the final say on the starting quarterback decision.
As of now, a decision regarding Wilson’s participation in Pittsburgh’s preseason finale against Detroit remains pending. The stakes are high, and the focus is increasingly on who will be entrusted with spearheading the offense when the games begin to count.
Coaching and Cohesion
Arthur Smith remains pragmatic about the preseason performances. “Preseason can distort reality, good or bad. We've all seen it. That's not making excuses. ... That's not our standard. That's not acceptable, but at the same time, would rather go through that now than have that happen Week 1. ... We've got to get out of our own way,” said Smith. The objective is clear: hone fundamentals, reduce penalties, and ensure a cohesive performance once the regular season kicks off.
Much has changed in the past year for Pittsburgh’s offense. Last season, under then-quarterback Kenny Pickett, the starting offense scored touchdowns on each of its five preseason possessions. However, that momentum did not carry through, leading to the dismissal of former offensive coordinator Matt Canada and a major overhaul of the quarterback room under Smith's guidance.
Despite the current struggles, there are glimmers of resilience within the team. Smith praised backup quarterback Russ for his efforts: “I give Russ a lot of credit for going out there. I think a lot of guys in that situation may have tapped out. He hadn’t had enough reps. He wanted to go out there.” This kind of attitude, according to Smith, will be integral as the Steelers navigate the transitional period.
The Road Ahead
As the Steelers gear up for their final preseason matchup against Detroit, the focus remains on getting back to basics. The offseason has been marked by an extensive re-evaluation of the team's offensive strategy and personnel, and with Smith at the helm, there is cautious optimism that the course correction will pay off. However, the true test lies ahead in the regular season, where the adjustments and hard work of the offseason will be put to the ultimate test.
In a landscape where preseason performances can often mask underlying realities, Smith’s seasoned perspective offers both a sobering and motivational outlook. "That's not a decision I have the burden to make," said Smith, underscoring the collaborative effort necessary to bring Pittsburgh’s offense to its full potential. As Week 1 looms, the Steelers faithful can only hope that Smith’s guiding hand will lead to a rejuvenation of their once-feared offensive prowess.