Steelers Aim for Turnaround Under New Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith
The Pittsburgh Steelers are navigating a transitional phase with the addition of Arthur Smith as their new offensive coordinator. Smith, with a track record that includes a successful stint with the Tennessee Titans in 2019, is tasked with reinvigorating a Steelers offense that has seen significant changes and challenges in the preseason.
Pittsburgh’s preseason outings have been less than ideal, featuring exhibition losses to both the Houston Texans and the Buffalo Bills. The team's struggles have been accentuated by poor offensive line play, pre-snap penalties, and a troubling inefficacy on possession downs. These issues have led many to scrutinize the revamped offensive unit more closely.
Smith brings with him an encouraging history. In 2019, his tenure as the Titans' offensive coordinator saw the team put up a mere 7 points across three preseason games. However, they rebounded dramatically to score 43 points in their regular-season opener. That same season, the Titans finished 10th in the NFL in scoring, and Derrick Henry claimed his first of two consecutive rushing titles.
Despite the concerning preseason performances, Smith remains focused on the bigger picture. "Preseason can distort reality, good or bad. We've all seen it. That's not making excuses. ... That's not our standard. That's not acceptable, but at the same time, would rather go through that now than have that happen Week 1," Smith stated. "We've got to get out of our own way," he added, emphasizing the need to correct their own mistakes.
A particularly contentious point has been the quarterback position. Zach Wilson currently sits atop the depth chart, edging out Justin Fields. However, Wilson's performance against Buffalo was far from convincing. He completed 8 of 10 passes for just 47 yards and was sacked three times. More worryingly, he failed to lead a single scoring drive.
Fields, meanwhile, has also struggled to find the end zone throughout the preseason. This leaves Head Coach Mike Tomlin with the onerous task of determining the starting quarterback. "That's not a decision I have the burden to make," Smith said, deferring to Tomlin's ultimate authority on the matter. The decision on whether Wilson will play in the upcoming preseason finale against the Detroit Lions remains pending, adding another layer of uncertainty.
Last season, Pittsburgh’s starting offense, under then-quarterback Kenny Pickett, showcased a starkly different complexion by scoring touchdowns on each of its five preseason possessions. However, the offensive struggles throughout the previous campaign eventually led to the dismissal of coordinator Matt Canada, making way for Arthur Smith’s appointment.
The offseason witnessed a substantial overhaul of Pittsburgh’s quarterback room under Smith's guidance. Yet, the initial signs indicate more work is needed. Currently, the team’s focus lies in honing fundamentals, reducing penalties, and ensuring a cohesive performance when the regular season commences.
Smith's approach appears grounded in realism and resilience. Reflecting on the performances, he mentioned, "I give Russ a lot of credit for going out there. I think a lot of guys in that situation may have tapped out. He hadn't had enough reps. He wanted to go out there," highlighting the grit and determination he expects from his players, even amid adversity.
The Steelers’ faithful will be hoping Smith can replicate his success from Tennessee and translate the lessons learned from a challenging preseason into regular-season victories. For now, the team needs to overcome its self-inflicted wounds and coalesce into a unit capable of performing at the high standards expected in Pittsburgh.