Frustration mounting as Steelers sputter offensively
The Steelers offense appears to have significant issues after averaging just 4.2 yards per play in a 17-14 loss against the Patriots on Sunday. Despite a small sample size, criticism is starting to simmer and signs of frustration are emerging.
According to The Athletic’s Mark Kaboly, wide receiver Diontae Johnson was seen flailing his arms on the bench.
“I was playing with emotion because I felt like I was open,” Johnson told Kaboly.
Quarterback Mitch Trubisky and the Steelers passing game is only averaging 172 yards per game, fifth lowest in the NFL. It’s not clear if Trubisky is unwilling to be aggressive or if he’s being pushed to be too cautious.
“There were options that were not taken by Trubisky, whether he chose not to, or he was told not to,” Kaboly writes. “Apparently, there was bickering in the huddle.”
The Steelers might be leery of letting Trubisky throw a deep ball. According to NFL Next Gen stats, Trubisky went 1-for-4 on passes of more than 20 yards. Fourteen of his 21 completions came within six yards of the line of scrimmage.
Trubisky downplayed a lack of trust and alleged bickering in the huddle.
“We’ve got a bunch of talent, and we’ve got to figure out what works best for us,” Trubisky told Kaboly.
More must-reads: