The Pittsburgh Steelers offense has been the team’s main problem all season long. Everyone knows that. While the defense has had its fair share of issues at times, they’ve still put in some dominant performances. Week 1 was perhaps the most telling game, as the defense registered seven sacks and five takeaways. That somehow resulted in a nail-biting three-point victory, one they certainly could have and perhaps should have lost against the Cincinnati Bengals.
The offense put up just 16 points on the day, all of which were set up in nice field position from the defense and special teams. It’s been a continuing theme all season, as the offense has ranked in the bottom-five of the league in nearly every major offensive category. In Week 12, on Monday Night Football, quarterback Kenny Pickett led the offense to 24 points en route to their fourth victory of the season.
It continued signs of growth from the offense lately, as the running game has specifically picked things up. Despite backup Jaylen Warren missing Week 12 and starter Najee Harris leaving the contest, others picked up the slack. Heading into Week 13 against the Atlanta Falcons, there seems to be much more optimism revolving the offense. Matt Canada isn’t being criticized nearly as much. Pickett is showing signs of progression as a rookie signal-caller.
The defense is noticing the offense’s efforts as well. That has led to some of the best complementary football that head coach Mike Tomlin has seen all season long. Via Josh Rowntree of 93.7 The Fan, star defensive lineman Cam Heyward told reporters on Thursday that he has been encouraged by the offense’s recent progress:
“Very encouraging. I always say if defense is on the sideline, that’s a good sign. And them sustaining drives, converting third downs is huge, and they have to continue to do it,” Heyward said via Rowntree. “I can pat them on the back, but it doesn’t help them going forward. We got to keep doing this, and we got to keep getting better.”
Heyward also talked about the team’s rookie quarterback, Pickett, who has been receiving praise from everyone within the team. Over the past few weeks, Pickett has been able to show that he can indeed be the team’s long-term option at quarterback. While the team still sits at just 4-7, it’s provided some encouragement on the team’s overall future and the direction they are headed.
The offense will look to continue their recent efforts against the Falcons in Week 13. While Harris’ prospects of playing are up in the air at the moment, Warren will be back in the fold. The running game put up 172 yards on the ground in Monday’s win over the Indianapolis Colts, something that’s key for the offense to continue to move forward in a positive direction.
More must-reads: