Steelers’ Offense Looking Sneaky Good, But There’s A Problem: “I Don’t Really Like The Fit”

The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense has been challenging to watch since the retirement of legendary quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger. The team has struggled significantly to transition to the next chapter after Roethlisberger. They drafted Kenny Pickett, hoping he could lead the franchise, but he was thrown into a difficult situation with former Offensive Coordinator, Matt Canada, and the two struggled mightily.

Now, the Steelers have completely revamped their quarterback room with the addition of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields this offseason. They also welcomed new Offensive Coordinator, Arthur Smith, who joins the Steelers after three seasons as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. Although Smith struggled with the Falcons, he thrived as an offensive coordinator with the Tennessee Titans.

With the new quarterbacks and a new system in place, there is a real sense of optimism among fans in the Steel City. Many are curious if the offense can improve under Smith. 

Former University of Wisconsin quarterback Nate Tice joined Jim Rome to discuss why he dislikes the fit between Wilson and Smith in Pittsburgh. However, he also sees a way in which it could work and be surprisingly effective.

“Looking at what Arthur Smith typically likes, I am a big fan of Arthur Smith as a play-caller and play designer. Maybe stepping back into the offensive coordinator role will be very good. I am interested in how he makes it work though. He is creative and he can make this work. At first glance, I don’t really like the fit because Russ likes to attack on the outside, which George Pickens will be a great fit, but Arthur Smith prefers to do quick-hitting play-action stuff over the middle.”

Tice highlighted how Wilson and wide receiver George Pickens could create a powerful attack on the outside and near the sidelines. However, Tice expressed concern that Wilson and Smith might clash in their preferred styles of play. Tice pointed out how all of Smith's previous quarterbacks all attacked over the middle of the field.

“Those guys all attacked over the middle because those are the yards that you get. Those explosive catches in the play-action game, Russ has never done that in his career. That is just not his attack style. He likes to attack downfield and create. The problem is if you go to Justin Fields, Justin Fields is like a taller version of Russ. He actually plays very similar.”

Tice also doubts that turning to Fields would benefit the Steelers, as his playing style is very similar to Wilson's. He is, however, interested to see how Smith will call plays with Wilson as his quarterback. There is plenty for Steelers fans to be excited about in terms of their running game. 

Smith loves a physical approach, and with two star running backs in Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, along with an improved offensive line, Tice believes the Steelers' offense could be surprisingly good in 2024.

"I think the Steelers' run game is gonna be fantastic. I'm very excited to watch that," Tice said. "I'm excited to see how Arthur Smith makes this work 'cause if they do, it could be an interesting offense, like one that kind of sneaks up on some teams because they can create some explosive plays."

Steelers' Offense Has A Bright Outlook For The 2024 Season

The Steelers' offense has a more exciting outlook than it has had in a while. After another disappointing offensive season, Steelers fans are eager for a turnaround. 

With Wilson and Smith leading the charge and two standout running backs, the Steelers have a chance to surprise many with a well-oiled offense in 2024. Both Steelers fans and football enthusiasts are curious to see how this new-look offense will perform in the upcoming season.

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