Top Takeaways From the Steelers’ Final Preseason Game
Photo Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ final preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons looked more like a varsity team playing the JV squad. The Steelers played their starters early and basically ended the game on the first two drives. Back to back touchdowns complemented by two three-and-outs gave Tomlins’ guys an early advantage and the destruction didn’t stop when the Black and Gold dipped into the second and third string as they built a 24-0 halftime lead.
Even with such a mismatch, the boys from the Steel City were able to get good work in that should be helpful heading into Week 1. Here are the top takeaways from Pittsburgh’s final preseason contest.
Broderick Jones Took A Step Forward
The Steelers’ first-round pick (14th overall) got a ton of reps, and this time he made the most of them. Jones entered the game on the third drive and made his presence felt immediately with his run blocking. While it was against the second-string Falcons line, his punch at initial contact was incredible. In this game he looked better than Dan Moore Jr, who moved over to right tackle and played with Jones. These are the Steelers’ two best tackles. It would be wise to have them on the field at the same time.
Jones struggled a bit finishing blocks later in the game, mostly looking bored going up against guys who wouldn’t likely make Atlanta’s final 53-man roster. Jones took a huge step forward in getting into the starting lineup.
Can Anyone Block Nate Herbig?
For the third-straight contest, Herbig put on a pass-rushing clinic. Again, it was against second- and third-string guys. But remember, Herbig isn’t a starter himself. But the way he has played in the preseason, expect the Steelers to get him in the game on obvious passing downs.
If the Steelers rush four, they can move T.J. Watt or Alex Highsmith inside to create a devastating rush with Watt, Highsmith, Cameron Heyward, and Herbig. Throw in Alex Golden, who, even at 32 years of age, still has some pass rush left in him. The Steelers look ready to menace quarterbacks throughout the league. Herbig is going to be a big part of that. He speed off the edge has to be accounted for.
Connor Heyward Is A Jack Of All Trades
The second-year tight end contributed both the passing and running game, toting the rock four times for 11 yards. His greatest value to the team is his versatility. Against the Falcons, he showed he can be a lead blocker in the run game in certain situations. More importantly, he flashed the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, which is going to be huge for the Steelers in short-yardage situations.
They Got Out Of The Game Healthy
The top priority was to get the work in and get out healthy. In a sport where bones break and ligaments tear, the Steelers got out of the preseason relatively healthy. No starters went down with any injuries. The team as a whole didn’t really have any major injury setbacks. This is not to be underestimated.
Overall, Pittsburgh got reps for plenty of guys who needed them. They got out injury free. They won the football game. You can’t ask for much more than that in the final tune up.
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