Steelers' Greatest Victory Over Jets Was Behind The Scenes

The Pittsburgh Steelers headed into the 2024 season with a new era at offensive coordinator. After Matt Canada struggled for quite some time, the Steelers made the rare decision to fire him midway through the 2023 season. In 2024, Arthur Smith arrived in Pittsburgh, bringing a fresh approach to the offense. His first year produced a mix of results, some promising and others frustrating, but it was clear the team was still adjusting to his schemes and philosophy. With Aaron Rodgers now in the Steel City for 2025, expectations are higher as many believe Smith can fully implement his system with a veteran quarterback at the helm.

Week 1 offered an early glimpse of what might be in store. Rodgers put on a performance that got fans excited, completing 22 of 30 passes for 244 yards and four touchdowns in a thrilling 34-32 victory over the New York Jets. The passing game looked sharp, precise, and well coordinated, signaling that Rodgers and Smith might be a perfect fit. However, the running game lagged behind, failing to provide balance and exposing lingering questions about the offense’s overall versatility. Despite that, the eye-catching passing performance was enough to dominate the narrative early in the season.

Still, Steelers insider Brian Batko took to 93.7 The Fan on Tuesday to highlight a less obvious but important takeaway from the win. He revealed that Smith’s offensive game plan was the true standout in the Jets matchup, suggesting that every touchdown and big play was driven more by creative scheming than individual heroics. 

"I think that was the best game that I can recall Arthur Smith dialing up for the Steelers since he's been installed as their OC," Batko said while speaking with 93.7 The Fan on Tuesday afternoon. "I am not trying to take anything away from Aaron Rodgers and what he did. But every one of them [touchdown passes] I think you can argue was a little more scheme-centric than just threading the needle and dropping a dime."

Batko emphasized that while Rodgers’ execution was exceptional, it was Smith’s play-calling and strategic design that allowed the Steelers to edge out a close victory. 

For fans and analysts alike, the message was clear: the offense’s potential may be greater than previously imagined if Smith continues dialing up his innovative approach.

"Arthur Smith was in his bag," Batko said.

For the Steelers, the win over the Jets was more than just a season opener. It felt like validation that the franchise made the right choice in pairing Smith with Rodgers. The creativity in the red zone, the timing of the calls, and the way Smith kept the Jets defense off balance stood out as a major difference from the predictable offenses of recent years. Even in areas where the team struggled, there was a sense that adjustments will come as the season progresses, especially with Rodgers fully buying into the system.

Steelers Need To Get Run Game Working

Looking ahead, the Steelers know that consistency will define how successful this partnership can be. Rodgers cannot be expected to throw four touchdowns every week, and the running game will need to improve if the offense is going to hold up over a long season. 

Steelers fans have made it clear they want to see more production on the ground, and Smith will need to deliver a balanced attack that keeps defenses honest. Still, if Week 1 was any indication, Smith has already taken a major step forward in Pittsburgh, according to Batko. With the spotlight on Rodgers, it may be Smith’s growth as a play-caller that ultimately determines how far the Steelers can go in 2025.

What grade would you give Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith for his coaching performance in Week 1 against the New York Jets? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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