With only days remaining until the Pittsburgh Steelers' final preseason game, the focus has squarely shifted to the team's offense. Despite the heightened scrutiny, general concern within the organization appears notably absent.
Russell Wilson's Debut
Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson, fresh off his debut in black and gold, will take the field in Saturday’s preseason finale against the Detroit Lions. Wilson’s participation will mark the third consecutive game in which the Steelers' first-team offense will be in action. However, the unit has yet to find the end zone this preseason. Last week’s game against the Buffalo Bills saw Wilson leading five drives, all of which ended unsuccessfully. The shuffling of various offensive line combinations has contributed to the offense’s inconsistency.
Offensive Struggles and Adjustments
These offensive struggles have been largely self-inflicted, according to the coaching staff. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has downplayed the unit's preseason woes, attributing the struggles to a conservative approach that aimed to avoid revealing too much of the playbook. Additionally, Smith has emphasized the value of practice sessions against one of the league's best defenses over preseason game results.
"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 stated, exuding confidence ahead of the final preseason matchup.
Opportunity for Redemption
The upcoming game against the Lions is viewed as a key opportunity for the offense to put something positive on tape and build momentum heading into the regular-season opener against the Atlanta Falcons. "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," emphasized tight end Pat Freiermuth. This sentiment reflects a strong determination and focus within the Steelers’ locker room.
Focus and Determination
Russell Wilson echoed this sentiment, expressing eagerness to return to the field. "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," Wilson said. His leadership will be crucial as the Steelers seek to correct their course. The offense's performance against the Lions will be closely monitored, as it represents a last chance to resolve any lingering issues before the games start to count.
The Steelers' coaching staff and players alike seem unfazed by the preseason results so far. With the combined confidence of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, Pittsburgh’s offense aims to gel just in time for the regular season, hoping to transform preseason learning experiences into regular-season success.