With only days remaining until the Pittsburgh Steelers' final preseason game, the focus has been squarely on the team's offense. Despite their struggles, general concern seems conspicuously absent among the players and coaching staff. This approach reflects a profound confidence in their ability to turn things around before the regular season kicks off.
Russell Wilson’s Adjustment Period
Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson, who recently made his debut in black and gold, will participate in Saturday's preseason finale against the Detroit Lions. This game represents the third consecutive outing for the Steelers' first-team offense, which is yet to find the end zone. The result of this game could set the tone for their regular-season opener against the Atlanta Falcons.
Wilson admitted to the challenges but remained optimistic. "We’re playing. We're all playing. I'm excited to get back onto the field. ... I think the big thing for us is just executing, making our plays and doing our thing," he shared.
Coaching Strategy and Line Shuffles
Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has downplayed the team's preseason struggles. The shuffling of various offensive line combinations has significantly contributed to the unit's inconsistency. This instability was visible last week against the Buffalo Bills, where Wilson led five unsuccessful drives. Additionally, self-inflicted wounds and Smith's conservative approach have hindered the offensive unit's performance.
"Someone asked if we're concerned [about the offense]. Absolutely not because the level of practices we’ve had against one of the best defenses and how we've shown up there," Wilson asserted, emphasizing the importance of their rigorous training sessions over preseason game results.
Final Opportunity for Momentum
The upcoming game against the Lions presents a crucial opportunity for the offense to make a positive statement. This is a chance to carry positive momentum into their regular-season opener. The offense's performance will be closely monitored to see if the unit can finally click and find the end zone.
Tight end Pat Freiermuth echoed Wilson's sentiments, highlighting the urgency within the locker room. "We talked about it as an offense, finishing off this last game with a bang and executing so we don’t go into Atlanta second-guessing ourselves. We want that good taste in our mouths," he said.
The sense of determination and focus within the Steelers’ locker room is palpable. With seasoned professionals and young talents alike working together, there's a shared expectation to rectify their preseason missteps and showcase their capabilities. Saturday's game against the Lions is more than just a final tune-up; it's a vital step in solidifying the offensive synergy as the Steelers look forward to a demanding NFL season.