The Pittsburgh Steelers are still in control of their own destiny. However, a stout New York Jets run defense might have something to say about that. Last week, the Steelers faced a tough Buffalo Bills defense and could not seem to move the ball. Quarterback Devlin Hodges was asked to throw the ball too much and made game-altering mistakes. Fittingly, the Steelers defense kept the offense within one possession all day. This week offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner needs to head back to the drawing board and find ways to move the chains versus the New York Jets.
Back to the Drawing Board: How the Pittsburgh Steelers Can Move the Chains Against the New York Jets
Get James Conner Going
The Pittsburgh Steelers came out last week and busted open a 15-yard run for a first down run to open the game up and get the clock moving. As the game went on they moved away from running the ball with just 42 yards from James Conner by the end of the game. Randy Fichtner decided to primarily move the ball in the air, which after an interception on the first drive proved early on to not be effective. Sunday, the rushing attack must remain persistent and wear down the Jets defense at home. The Jets are allowing 88 yards per game on the ground. That mark is the second-best in the league behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Also, Conner added his only touchdown in the air along with four catches. Screens and dump-offs to the running back will likely be crucial parts of the game plan this week. Randy Fichtner will likely use a healthy mix of Conner and Kerrith Whyte in the short passing game.
Pittsburgh Steelers Offensive Line Must Win Up Front
The Jets have been slowly piecing this run defense together over the years. They believe they have added one of the last pillars of that front in Quinnen Williams in last year’s draft out of Alabama. While receiving mixed receptions from the New York fans, Williams has remained adamant in his plans to rise to the occasion and be one of the best. Nose tackle Steve McLendon is questionable for the game along with Williams according to the injury report. If both somehow miss this game the Steelers offensive line will have a much more manageable front five to handle in the Jets 3-4 base defense.
Last week was unacceptable for what was once seen as an elite Steelers offensive line. Young quarterback Devlin Hodges referred to the Bills defense as “normal” and the Bills responded exactly as one would expect. Maurkice Pouncey and company couldn’t create a hole to run through after the first quarter. Hodges also spent the majority of the game on the run. Ultimately, this pressure led to his final interception of the game with time dwindling.
Keep Devlin Hodges From Playing Hero
Four interceptions and a 43 passer rating is the type of performance that will make or break a young quarterback. While never being down more than one possession over the course of the game, Duck was asked to throw 38 times against an experienced secondary. Anytime a former practice squad quarterback is forced to throw 38 times that team isn’t likely to be in a winning position.
This week, it would benefit the Pittsburgh Steelers to keep his attempts down to around 24-27. That is the range this offense has found its limited success so far. Hodges’ coaching staff needs to head back to the drawing board and scheme fewer throws requiring top arm strength, unlike last week. This will also give the offense a chance to increase rushing attempts. Going from just 15 attempts last week to up around 25-27 would help the Steelers keep the ball out of Sam Darnold’s hands.
