The Steelers have recently made a major change to their offensive strategy, moving head coach Matt Canada completely out of the stadium just two days before Thanksgiving. At first glance, this decision may seem surprising, given that the team is currently winning and performing well. However, it becomes clear that the offense has been struggling throughout the year.
The team has been outgained every week and has yet to develop a clear identity or strategy for attacking defenses. On Sunday, the Jaylen Warren show was the highlight of the game, with 10 total points scored. This was also a shitshow, with receiver Diontae Johnson reportedly being carried away from a member of the coaching staff and running back Najee Harris making post-game comments indicating his frustration with the situation.
So what’s next for the Steelers? It’s still unclear how the offense will operate moving forward. Running backs coach Eddie Faulkner will be taking over as offensive coordinator, while quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan will be calling plays. Someone else will have to take charge of changing the tire on a moving car.
While it’s not impossible that this new offensive brain trust could turn things around in December 2012 style by firing offensive coordinator Cam Cameron and winning the Super Bowl under Jim Caldwell, there are some challenges to consider here. Kenny Pickett is not Joe Flacco in his prime and does not possess any big throws into tight spots or significant mobility. It’s possible that Pickett may not be what many thought he would be when they made him a first-round pick in 2022. Additionally, it remains unclear whether this new offensive brain trust will consider pivoting to Mitch Trubisky or other potential options for 2024 or beyond.
Overall, while there are certainly challenges ahead for Pittsburgh’s offense, they do have some time to make changes and potentially find success in their remaining games this season.