PITTSBURGH STEELERS PRESEASON FOOTBALL

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY

The Pittsburgh Steelers first two preseason games have been a study in contrast. Against the Eagles there was a lot of positives to be gleaned. Against the Packers, there was much to be concerned about.

While it’s true that we shouldn’t read too much into preseason, there are still some things to be pleased about. It’s also clear there are some concerns.

THE GOOD

JAMES WASHINGTON

Washington is making a clear and uncontested case to be the third receiver in this offense and will have an immediate impact. While he still needs to work on his separation, he has shown enough athletic ability to become a major force for Randy Fictner’s offensive schemes. Washington already has Steeler fans asking ‘Martavis Who?’

JAMES CONNER

Conner looks like a totally different back from last year. He is running with power and confidence. Conner is firmly entrenched as the backup to Le’Veon Bell and if he continues his solid play into the season will be the feature back in 2019.

DANIEL MCCULLERS

I had McCullers on the outside looking in, but the light seems to have gone on for him. He’s battling not just for a backup spot, but the starting nose tackle slot.  At 6-7 and 345 he is more of a natural for the position than  Javon Hargrave and has been given a new lease on life from new d-line coach Karl Dunbar.

THE BAD

DEFENSE

Too many missed tackles and guys out of position hurt against the Packers. They have received nothing from either Tyler Matakevich nor free agent signee Jon Bostic. The secondary continues to be a work in progress.

INJURIES

Yes, every team is dealing with injuries during the preseason, but the Steelers seem to be amongst the hardest hit, especially in the O-line. A veteran or two may be added during the cutdown from 90 to 53 to bolster the backups. Letting Chris Hubbard go  hurt, but they weren’t going to overpay for him. It’s clear though that they currently have nobody to fill his versatility.

MARCUS ALLEN

Everyone agreed he was a late round steal. I for one really liked (and still do) him to be a contributor this season. But not playing a down against Green Bay is not a good sign. Looks like Allen will be a practice squad member this year. Maybe we Allen fans were a year early.

THE UGLY

INSIDE LINEBACKER

Calling Navarro Bowman or Lawrence Timmons….

It’s been a very ugly preseason for both Tyler Matakevich and Jon Bostic. Their flat out bad play has made the draft day neglect of the position even more glaring. Josey Jewell, who was linked to the team in early mock drafts (in the second or third round)  has played well for the Broncos and would have made a nice addition. But alas, GM Kevin Colbert went in other directions.

Watching the Matakevich/Bostic horror show makes the need to add a vet at the position a near must at this point. Timmons knows the system and would be a decent stop gap. Bowman is smart enough to pick up any system quickly. Adding one would be smart.

PUNTING

Nice knowing you Jordan Berry.

Berry’s struggles continue into the preseason. He was average last year and has been far below average this preseason. Consistency has been his hobgoblin since he entered the league and it has only grown worse.