With only days remaining until the Pittsburgh Steelers’ final preseason game, the spotlight is firmly on the team’s offense. Despite the scrutiny, there's a surprising absence of widespread concern within the organization.
Russell Wilson, fresh off his debut in the Steelers' black and gold, is set to participate in Saturday's preseason finale against the Detroit Lions. This game will mark the third consecutive appearance for the first-team offense, a unit that has yet to score a touchdown.
Preseason Challenges
Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has downplayed the team's preseason struggles. Last week's game against the Buffalo Bills saw Wilson lead five unsuccessful drives, highlighting the inconsistency that has plagued the squad. The shuffling of various offensive line combinations, in particular, has contributed to these struggles, as has a conservative playcalling approach.
The self-inflicted wounds and lack of end-zone appearances have not gone unnoticed. "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," stated Wilson. Despite the rough patches, the determination within the Steelers’ locker room remains palpable.
Context and Confidence
Wilson's confidence isn't unfounded. "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," he explained. The practices against top-tier defensive squads have tested and presumably toughened the offense, offering a silver lining in an otherwise turbulent preseason.
Last Chance for Momentum
Saturday's game against the Lions represents a crucial chance for the Steelers to put something positive on tape before their regular-season opener against the Atlanta Falcons. Offensive struggles aren't just a concern for the fans; they affect players' focus and confidence. As Pat Freiermuth shared, "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."
This upcoming game will be closely monitored, not just by the fans but also by stakeholders within the organization. The Steelers are hopeful that a solid performance will set the right tone for the season ahead, easing any latent concerns about the offense's potential.
Key Takeaways
While the Steelers' preseason performance has been characterized by inconsistency and missed opportunities, the team remains focused and determined. The final preseason game against the Lions will serve as a critical test of their preparedness and ability to execute under pressure. With Russell Wilson's leadership and the experience gained from facing tough defenses in practice, there is an air of cautious optimism as the team looks to bring their offseason efforts to fruition on the field.