The Red Zone Will Tell the Tale In Pittsburgh’s Preseason Opener
Credit: Barry Reeger-USA TODAY Sports
I’ve been pretty honest in my articles about my poor golf game. Since the last article, I’ve played quite a bit, and naturally, some things have improved. I wouldn’t say I’ve gotten good as much as I feel I’m not as bad. I still struggle. Just in different ways. Specifically, I have a hard time finishing rounds. Even when I hit a few nice shots on a hole, I inevitably tense up, afraid to miss a chip or putt. The result is often far worse than if I played free and loose.
Last year, the Steelers offense tensed up in the short game frequently. In fact, Kenny Pickett was 33rd – yes there are 32 teams in the NFL – in red zone touchdowns last season. While a considerable portion of that falls on his shoulders, it also falls on poor scheme and playcalling.
Fans were surprised early in the season, especially after Pickett and the offense “won the pre-season” with spectacular play. If you recall, much of that success came from deep balls and wide-open coverage. They were tested minimally in the red zone in their preseason games, and it wasn’t until real football began that it became apparent the Steelers were ill-equipped inside the 20-yard line.
Like many yinzers, I am optimistic that this is going to change, and we may see this tonight. The Steelers will welcome the Houston Texans to Acrisure Stadium (Heinz Field) to play their first preseason game. The Texans played last week in the Hall of Fame Game, so the Steelers will likely face stiffer competition than typically found in the preseason. This will be helpful, especially in evaluating Justin Fields. The young QB2 will have a chance to put his strong camp performance on display for coaches and fans alike.
Specifically, it’s worth keeping an eye out for Fields’ play in the red zone. Mike Tomlin stated in his press conference Tuesday that he is focused on player performance, not scheme. Arthur Smith will surely do his best to tee Fields up for success, but it’s ultimately up to the QB and his weapons.
Despite limited play so far, Russell Wilson remains in “pole position” according to Mike Tomlin, leaving Fields in pole position 2. Tomlin maintains this standing based on Wilson’s pedigree and his lesser need for work in the preseason. Tomlin is smart in thinking this way.
Wilson comes to the Steelers as the sixth-best red zone quarterback in 2023. This track record of producing red zone touchdowns is an incredibly important component of why the Steelers sought out Wilson to begin with. It’s an advantage that should help him fend off his young, fast backup for some time. However, if Fields takes advantage of his opportunities close to the goal line, he will continue to build a strong case to be a starter in Pittsburgh, even if it won’t happen until 2025.
Of course, the red zone isn’t all on the quarterback. If you think back to last season, there were multiple occasions in which Najee Harris — despite being touted as a power running back — was stonewalled at the goal line. I’m thinking of last year’s Arizona Cardinals game, but it’s okay if you’ve suppressed the memory. I’ve tried to, myself.
Simply put, the offensive line struggled to get a push in the run game. Too frequently, holes would collapse before either Harris or Jaylen Warren could make their way through. Even Warren’s top plays from last season came from his incredible ability to bounce outside of his run lane after it vanished before his eyes.
Except for Isaac Seumalo, every offensive lineman is expected to strap up for the first preseason game. With tight competition at center and tackle, these performances are going to matter. Look for linemen opening holes for backs and getting to the second level on runs. If things go as many expect, we could see a reshuffling of the O-line depth chart as early as next week. If Fields has time in the pocket and the line falls forward for the backs in the red zone, fans can rest assured the Steelers have righted the ship. If not, maybe Russ will cook.
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