The Pittsburgh Steelers’ 34-22 victory over the Indianapolis Colts
provided a blueprint for offensive success. That plan included heavy tight-end packages, physical blocking, and a relentless ground game behind Jaylen Warren. Yet, a persistent tug-of-war over offensive identity continues to raise questions about who is truly steering the ship, head coach Mike McCarthy or veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers.When Pittsburgh leans into multi-tight-end personnel with Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington, the offense thrives. However, frequent retreats to spread-out, 11-personnel passing sets have repeatedly stalled momentum. This friction leaves analysts wondering whether McCarthy’s play-calling or Rodgers’ audibles at the line are keeping the offense from
fully committing to its most dominant style.
On the “North Shore Drive” podcast, Ray Fittipaldo noted a prime example following Warren’s 50-yard run, when a promising drive instantly fizzled after three straight passes.
“Now, somebody said on social media, the first play was an RPO. Aaron changed it to a pass,” Fittipaldo said. “To me, when Jaylen Warren was as hot as he was yesterday, you really have to lean into that.”
Co-host Christopher Carter pointed out that McCarthy must take firm control of the scheme to match the physical roster constructed by the front office.
“To me, McCarthy has got to be able to sit Aaron Rodgers down like, ‘Hey, Aaron, man, like you ain’t the show anymore. This is about this roster that I’m trying to set up to win’,” Carter emphasized. “If it is Aaron Rodgers that’s doing this, Mike McCarthy needs to sit him down and say, ‘Aaron, buddy, I’m helping, help me help you.’”
With three passing touchdowns against the Colts, Rodgers showed he can flourish in a balanced system. For Pittsburgh to build sustainable success, McCarthy and Rodgers must get on the same page and embrace playing bully ball.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Who is keeping the Steelers offense from taking off?
