Introduction
In Week 2 of the NFL preseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers faced off against the Buffalo Bills, falling short with a 9-3 loss. Despite the return of veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, the Steelers’ offense struggled to gain momentum, raising concerns as the regular season approaches.
The Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Buffalo Bills in Week 2 of the NFL preseason, where their offense struggled significantly, resulting in a 9-3 loss. Russell Wilson, making his preseason debut, led the offense for five series but failed to score, completing 8 of 10 passes for 47 yards. However, the offensive line’s poor performance, which allowed three sacks, hampered the team’s ability to sustain drives.
Wilson’s Challenges
Wilson’s return was highly anticipated, but the lack of protection from the offensive line made it difficult for him to establish a rhythm. The Steelers averaged just 1.6 yards per play with Wilson at the helm, a stark contrast to the efficiency needed to succeed in the NFL. Head coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the need for improved pass protection, noting that the offensive line’s struggles prevented a full evaluation of Wilson’s performance.
Broderick Jones, who stepped in at right tackle following rookie Troy Fautanu’s knee injury, struggled in his role, giving up two sacks. Jones’ difficulties further exacerbated the offensive line’s issues, highlighting a key area the Steelers need to address before the regular season begins.
Fields’ Mobility Shows Promise
After Wilson exited, Justin Fields took over and led the Steelers to their only points of the game—a field goal—before halftime. Fields showed his potential by leading the team in both passing and rushing yards, completing 11 of 17 passes for 92 yards and adding 42 rushing yards. His mobility was on full display, as he extended plays and made critical gains with his legs.
One of the game’s highlights was Fields’ escape from a would-be sack, rolling out to find Dez Fitzpatrick for a 19-yard completion. Despite these flashes of brilliance, the offense remained inconsistent, managing just 160 total yards under Fields.
Looking Ahead
The Steelers face significant challenges as they prepare for the regular season. The competition between Wilson and Fields for the starting quarterback position remains open, with both showing potential but needing better support from the offensive line. Tomlin and the coaching staff must focus on strengthening the offensive line to protect their quarterbacks and improve overall offensive efficiency.
Wilson remains optimistic about his ability to bounce back, stating, “I think the best thing that I can do, personally, is just stay consistent in my approach.” Fields, too, demonstrated his value, particularly with his mobility, but the offense as a whole needs to find a rhythm.
With limited time before the regular season begins, the Steelers must address these issues to ensure they are ready to compete. The performance of the offensive line and the outcome of the quarterback competition will be crucial to the team’s success in the 2024 NFL season.
FAQs
1. How did Russell Wilson perform in the preseason game?
Wilson completed 8 of 10 passes for 47 yards but struggled due to poor pass protection, resulting in three sacks and limited offensive production.
2. What challenges did Justin Fields face?
Fields led the second unit to just three points, but his mobility and ability to extend plays were highlights in an otherwise tough outing for the Steelers’ offense.
3. What were the key issues for the Steelers’ offense?
The Steelers struggled with pass protection, which led to three sacks and a lack of sustained drives, making it difficult to evaluate the quarterbacks’ performances.
4. What’s next for the Steelers?
The Steelers will need to address their offensive line issues and continue to evaluate the competition between Wilson and Fields as they prepare for the regular season.
