I Was Wrong About the Steelers
I was wrong about the Steelers. At least, in some ways. I wrote some previous posts that were brutal to Mike Tomlin and Kenny Pickett. But, now the Steelers have reached an 8-8 record since being 2-6. There is still one game left and they have a very tough scenario to get into the playoffs. But, the team growth gives me so much hope for the coming seasons. I can admit when I’m wrong.
Kenny Pickett
It took rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett some time, but he has two fourth quarter comebacks in the last two weeks. But, it’s the way he did it. He demonstrated poise and confidence. His accuracy is so much better now. He still looks awkward sometimes, but he’s getting the job done. I think we found our new “Big Ben.” Although Pickett isn’t so big.
Mike Tomlin
I have been very tough on head coach Mike Tomlin. But, I have to give him props for getting a young team to 8-8. He still has some qualities that irritate me, but he’s done a good job this season. I have to give him credit for making the decision to go with Pickett at quarterback and staying with it in good times and bad. That decision will serve him well in the future.
Tomlin still has deficiencies when it comes to clock management, challenges and being overly loyal to players and coaches. But, he gets the most out of his players. And, they play hard for him.
Najee Harris
I’ve been tough on running back Najee Harris also. His performance over the last four or five weeks has been spectacular. In addition to Pickett, he has been a clutch player. He absolutely had to be hurt early in the season, which was affecting his performance. When healthy, Harris dominates. Keep this guy healthy at all costs.
Bye Bush
Several drafts ago, the Steelers traded up in the first round to select linebacker Devin Bush. Unfortunately, he tore his ACL in his second season and was never the same player again. He’s been relegated to spot duty lately. He had such great potential. But, he’ll likely be gone after this season. Such a shame. Sometimes trades work (Bettis) and sometimes they don’t.
But
But, there are some concerns that will need to be addressed this coming offseason.
- Can we please hire an NFL-caliber offensive coordinator to replace Matt Canada?
- Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin and defensive assistant Brian Flores need to be evaluated because they haven’t been solid.
- Can we please fortify the offensive and defensive lines in the draft or through free agency?
- Can we please get a solid cornerback or two in the draft or through free agency?
Conclusion
I am a steady reader of the DKPittsburghSports website. They hired a new Steelers writer this season named Chris Halicke. I have been very critical of his writing because I think he’s too much of a suck up to the team. But, he wrote an article when the Steelers were 2-6 suggesting that the best way to develop the team is by winning. He was right! And, that’s what they’ve been doing.
