Steelers Inspired By Joe Flacco And The Cleveland Browns According To Dan Orlovsky

The Pittsburgh Steelers fans have been witness to a weird season, characterized by historically bad offensive performances that left many wondering why they couldn't have a leader like 38-year-old Joe Flacco, who was rejuvenating the Cleveland Browns. In the world of sports, sometimes suffering precedes success, and in the case of the Steelers, an offensive turnaround has manifested itself. 

The emergence of Mason Rudolph has brought a newfound spark to the Steelers' offense. Suddenly, everything is clicking, and the energy and effort levels are at an all-time high. ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky believes that the Steelers have found inspiration from an unexpected source –  Flacco and their AFC North rivals, the Browns. Orlovsky believes the Steelers are alive and that Rudolph and his play are a main reason for their offensive success as of late. 

The Emergence of Steelers WR George Pickens

One notable change since Rudolph took the reins is the way the Steelers have utilized wide receiver George Pickens. In his two games with Rudolph as the quarterback, Pickens has averaged 163 receiving yards per game. 

Orlovsky believes that the Steelers new interim offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner and play caller Mike Sullivan have played a big part in the recent success of Rudolph and the offense as well. 

Orlovsky points out, "Number one, they've moved George Pickens around, and that's freed up not only him in this pass game, but also Diontae Johnson has been able to work the middle of the field a little bit."

Orlovsky also highlights the impact of a resurgent run game on the passing attack. This run game is led by Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris. These bell cow's rushed the football for a combined 40 times on Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. Warren rushed for 75 yards and Harris rushed for 122 yards. It's safe to say the emergence of Rudolph has also helped further open the run game.

"This is a team that's run the ball well this year. I think that has allowed more play-action passes. Moving George Pickens around has allowed him to be more involved in various pass route concepts, including slants, curls, and in routes, rather than sticking near the sideline and running go routes. He can do more than that."

Orlovsky noted that he's been drawing parallels between the Steelers' offensive approach and the Browns with Flacco at the helm. Kevin Stefanski's approach on offense has been remarkable with Flacco. Maybe the Steelers looked for a little inspiration from their little brother, the Browns. 

"It's almost like what Cleveland has done with Joe Flacco when it comes to the gun play-action. I've seen a little bit more of the gun play-action for Pittsburgh, marrying that with the effective run game we've seen."

Flacco's remarkable resurgence with the Browns, after being out of the league and hoping for an NFL return, mirrors Rudolph's journey. Earlier in the season, Rudolph found himself listed as third on the depth chart and humorously mentioned updating his resume to explore alternative career paths, such as real estate.

As the Steelers navigate their drama filled quarterback situation, Rudolph continues to build his football resume on the field. His performance could potentially earn him a lucrative contract elsewhere or even secure his position as the Steelers' starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Maybe even the playoffs if the Steelers beat the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday and get some outside help from either the Miami Dolphins or the Tennessee Titans.

The offseason promises intriguing developments as the Steelers fight for their slim playoff hopes. In a season filled with twists and turns, the Steelers are drawing inspiration from unlikely sources and striving for a postseason berth, fueled by their newfound offensive prowess under Rudolph's leadership. 

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