The Steelers rank bottom-five in the NFL in both rushing yards and points per game to open the season, and while it’s been because of a laundry list of issues, many of those problems can be traced back to the offensive line.
In fact, per NFL Pro, the Steelers’ -0.26 average yards before contact per rush is the worst in the league. And in pass protection, Aaron Rodgers was sacked four times in Week 2.
While players who are supposed to be proven starters, such as Zach Frazier and Troy Fautanu, disappointed
at times against the Patriots, the good news for Pittsburgh is that capable replacements could be waiting in the wings for embattled current starters Dylan Cook (right tackle) and Spencer Anderson (right guard).
Could we see rookie first-rounder Max Iheanachor start at tackle in Week 3, or veteran Brock Hoffman replace Anderson at guard? At this point, it seems more likely than ever.
Steelers coverage from Behind the Steel Curtain
- Injuries keep Rico Dowdle, Jamel Dean out of Steelers practice: Pittsburgh has some health concerns ahead of a big Week 3 matchup against the Bengals.
- Mike McCarthy expresses faith in DK Metcalf after poor start: The Steelers haven’t given up on their WR1 just yet.
- Rookie special teamer earns praise from Steelers coach: Robert Spears-Jennings has been an unsung Steelers hero through two weeks.
Steelers discussion: Are offensive line changes on the way?
Some changes in practice could be a good sign for those who want Max Iheanachor and Brock Hoffman in the Steelers’ starting lineup.
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Pittsburgh Steelers news and notes
- The Steelers need something to ‘hang your hat on’: Pittsburgh’s search for identity on offense.
- Aaron Rodgers pleased with rookies: Germie Bernard and Max Iheanachor earn strong reviews from the veteran quarterback.
- How to watch Steelers vs. Bengals: Pittsburgh opens AFC North play on Sunday.
News from around the NFL
- The Falcons’ offense has been so bad it would literally be hard to be worse: The Steelers’ season-opening performance was not the strongest of wins.
- Ranking the NFL’s 2-0 teams by how good they look so far: Fraud watch through two weeks.
- Ohio lawmakers want to take $600 million from the Browns to make gas cheaper: An interesting update in Cleveland’s new stadium saga.
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