Steelers’ Ground Game: Can Pittsburgh Find More explosiveness?
The Pittsburgh Steelers‘ rushing attack presents a curious paradox.While consistently churning out yards through sheer volume and physicality, their ground game lacks the explosive plays needed to consistently dominate opponents. This season, the Steelers rank third in the NFL in rushing attempts, a testament to their commitment to the run. However, they sit a less impressive 10th in total rush yards, 19th in rushing touchdowns (13), and a concerning 24th in yards per carry (4.1). Despite forcing 117 missed tackles, a significant number showcasing their physical dominance, the team needs a boost in big-play potential.
The steelers’ reliance on the run, a hallmark of their offensive beliefs under head coach Mike tomlin, requires a more dynamic element. As one analyst noted, ”There are definitely teams wiht worse backfields, but for what Mike tomlin wants his steelers to be, there is much to be desired in the run game.”
The teamS leading rushers,Najee Harris and jaylen Warren,represent contrasting styles. Harris, a consistent performer over his four seasons in pittsburgh, has amassed over 1,000 rushing yards each year. However, his career average of under 4.0 yards per carry raises questions about his long-term viability as a feature back. Warren, on the other hand, offers a valuable change-of-pace option with his pass-catching ability, a crucial asset when healthy. both players face uncertain futures, with Harris’ fifth-year option declined and both set to become free agents this offseason.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the Steelers’ approach to the running back position is likely to undergo a significant shift.With Harris potentially departing, the team is expected to seek a younger, more explosive back to complement their existing talent. “As they potentially move on from Harris…look for the Steelers to bring in a younger, more explosive RB for 2025,” predicts one expert. The team’s decision regarding Warren, a restricted free agent, remains to be seen, but a re-signing seems plausible: “And I won’t be surprised if they re-sign Warren…”
The Steelers’ offseason decisions will be crucial in determining the future success of their running game. Finding a balance between power and explosiveness will be key to unlocking the full potential of their offensive scheme and competing for a playoff spot in the highly competitive AFC North.
Steelers Running Game: Can Pittsburgh Find the Explosiveness They Need?
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Senior Editor Sarah Jones: Welcome back to world Today News Sports Talk. Today, we’re dissecting the Pittsburgh Steelers’ rushing attack. joining us is renowned football analyst Jim Reynolds. Jim, thanks for being hear.
Jim Reynolds: My pleasure, Sarah.Always glad to talk Steelers football.
sarah jones: Let’s dive right in. The Steelers are known for their commitment to the run, but the numbers seem to paint a picture of a ground game that’s more gritty then explosive. Can you break that down for our audience?
Jim Reynolds: absolutely, Sarah. the steelers absolutely pound the rock. They’re third in the league in rushing attempts, which shows their dedication to establishing the run. But they’re only 10th in total yards, and their yards per carry are a bit underwhelming. What they lack is that game-breaking, big-play ability that truly puts defenses on their heels.
Sarah Jones: So it’s a case of quantity over quality?
Jim reynolds: It’s not quite that simple. They do force a lot of missed tackles,which indicates physicality and good blocking. But in today’s NFL,you need that extra gear,that ability to rip off a long touchdown run or consistently gain six or seven yards a pop. Right now, they’re just not getting it.
Sarah Jones: Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren are the main guys. How do you assess their contributions?
Jim Reynolds: Harris is a reliable workhorse. He’s been their guy for four years, hitting that 1,000-yard mark every season. But his yards-per-carry average isn’t spectacular, which raises questions about his ceiling.
Warren brings something different. He’s more dynamic in the open field and helps out in the passing game. His versatility is a valuable asset, but injuries have been a concern.
Sarah Jones: With Harris’s fifth-year option declined and both players headed for free agency, what does the future look like for the Steelers backfield?
Jim Reynolds: I think they’re looking for a critically important change. It wouldn’t surprise me to see them move on from Harris. They need someone younger, someone with that burst of speed they’re lacking. Warren might be re-signed as a complementary piece, but they need a true difference-maker.
Sarah Jones: Rebuilding a rushing attack isn’t easy. What key factors will determine their success?
Jim Reynolds: First, they need to find the right guy in the draft or free agency – a back who fits their scheme but also has that explosive element.
Second,the offensive line needs to continue to gel. Creating holes for a running back is essential.
it comes down to coaching. Head coach Mike Tomlin needs to put his backs in positions to succeed.
Sarah Jones: Well said, Jim. It sounds like there are some crucial decisions ahead for the Steelers. Thanks for providing such insightful analysis.
Jim reynolds: My pleasure, Sarah. Always a grate conversation.
