Nobody should be pushing the panic button in the preseason, but it was easy to have concerns after the Steelers debut. The game highlighted several areas of concern, from shaky offensive line play to lack of execution, the Steelers’ offense didn’t even show a flash to impress. Rookie players like Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier are further under the microscope, while Nate Herbig is in the dog house. The Steelers and Head Coach Mike Tomlin will need to address these issues quickly to build momentum for the regular season.
Bad Offensive Line Play
The Steelers’ offensive line faced immediate challenges, with center Nate Herbig struggling in his preseason debut. Two botched exchanges with quarterback Justin Fields that resulted in fumbles, fortunately recovered by the team. These fundamental errors are JV-level, and it’s frustrating to watch, even if it’s just preseason. Herbig took full responsibility for the mishaps, but it’s a shared responsibility with the QB.
While guards Isaac Seumalo and James Daniels showed promise in pass protection last season, the overall line performance remains a bottom unit in the league. In the first two series, at least one player was getting beat. The neophytes, Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier, demonstrated potential as run blockers but inexperience in pass protection.
As mentioned, Steelers’ first-round pick Troy Fautanu faced a tough introduction to the NFL. He struggled in pass protection, giving up two sacks, including one to veteran Danielle Hunter. Unfortunately, there is not much to evaluate further, with his debut cut short due to a knee injury. This throws a wrench in the coaches future decisions on how to proceed upfront.
#Steelers second-round center Zach Frazier on his comfort with the offense.
— Aaron Becker (@Aaron_M_Becker) August 6, 2024
“I feel pretty comfortable. Like I said earlier, I just feel like every day I get out here, I feel more and more comfortable, more and more in command. … It’s just about getting reps for me.” pic.twitter.com/lXFQggfLX0
#Steelers RT Troy Fautanu gets welcomed to the NFL by Danielle Hunter pic.twitter.com/CjBOosusnA
— Rob Gregson (@NFL_Rob) August 9, 2024
The Center Position
Second round pick Zach Frazier had a more positive outing. After early snap issues between Nate Herbig and Justin Fields, Frazier took over and delivered clean snaps throughout the game. Easy brownie points scored with the coaching staff.
The offense operated more efficiently with Frazier in the lineup. The advantage of comfort allowed the Steelers to create holes and walk away with some quality looks in the running game. Frazier’s debut has earned him consideration for first-team reps faster than anticipated.
Both rookies have room for growth. Fautanu needs to work on his footwork and body balance in pass protection. For Frazier, continuing to develop consistency and chemistry with the quarterbacks will be crucial.
Justin Fields’ Mixed Showing
Justin Fields’ Steelers debut was a mix of promise and problems. He completed 5 of 6 passes for 67 yards, but those two fumbled exchanges with Nate Herbig marred his performance. With limited opportunity, he managed to connect with George Pickens and Van Jefferson for significant gains. That’s about all the excitement from Fields before calling it a night.
Kyle Allen’s Ups and Downs
Kyle Allen had a more extensive outing. He completed 17 of 23 passes for 193 yards and lead two touchdown drives. Great to know the third string QB spot will be occupied by a veteran who has at least started multiple games. Allen’s top play was his 6-yard touchdown pass to Connor Heyward.
#Steelers drive stalls again but a nice ball from Justin Fields to Van Jefferson here
— Rob Gregson (@NFL_Rob) August 9, 2024
🎥@TannerPhiferNFL
pic.twitter.com/kHpMolzCch
Taking sacks like these are inexcusable. It's year 4. https://t.co/blHyjl9LoQ pic.twitter.com/RaHXwFBXcC
— Joel Moran (@joelvmoran) August 9, 2024
Miscues and Missed Opportunity
Both quarterbacks faced challenges. Fields was sacked twice for a loss of 15 yards, while Allen missed a potential touchdown when he overthrew Calvin Austin III in the end zone. These missed opportunities highlighted areas for improvement as the Steelers continue their preseason preparations.
The Steelers face the task of refining their offensive strategy and addressing the issues revealed in this game. The coaching staff will likely focus on enhancing pass protection, improving quarterback-center coordination, and further developing the promising aspects of their ground game. As the preseason continues, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team progresses and adapts to overcome these early hurdles.
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