2 weeks Ago
The Pittsburgh Steelers boast a 2-0 record, but questions remain about their offense, particularly the running game. As they prepare to face the Los Angeles Chargers, the focus is on whether their ground game can step up after an inconsistent start to the season. Despite the team's success, there is room for improvement on offense, and their upcoming battle with the Chargers could provide answers.
Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports Through the first two weeks , Pittsburgh's rushing attack has been underwhelming, averaging 3.8 yards per carry.
While the defense has carried much of the load, the offense, led by Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, has struggled to find its rhythm, a fact that hasn’t gone unnoticed. Former Chargers fullback Lorenzo Neal didn’t mince words when he critiqued the Steelers' backfield, which features Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, and newly added Cordarrelle Patterson. “They don’t scare me,” said Neal.
“They’re not game-changing or playmaking backs, in my opinion. They run okay.” This criticism comes at a time when the Steelers are trying to establish a stronger ground game , especially with Harris eager to prove himself and Warren recovering from a hamstring injury.
Adding a mobile quarterback like Justin Fields into the mix should, theoretically, boost the run game, but so far, the backfield has yet to silence the doubters. Related: Can Steelers Defense Stop Chargers' Run Game? Pittsburgh's offense, still finding its footing , has also been hampered by penalties. In their Week 2 win over the Broncos, Harris voiced frustration over the offensive unit's lack of execution and discipline.
As the Steelers prepare for a Chargers team with an aggressive defensive front, cleaning up mistakes and improving the run game will be key to securing their third win. The Steelers' defense has been the team's saving grace , allowing Pittsburgh to start 2-0 despite offensive woes. But with a critical matchup ahead, it will take a balanced effort to fend off a Chargers squad eager for their first win of the season.
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