Why there's still hope for Steelers offense in 2023
The Steelers announced that Matt Canada will return as their offensive coordinator for the 2023 NFL season. It's a surprising decision after Pittsburgh's offense struggled all year, but there may be a silver lining.
The Steelers offense did produce better numbers following the team's bye week. Pittsburgh increased its points per game by nearly six points and had almost a third of the number of turnovers in its last nine games compared to its first eight.
Granted, just two of the Steelers' final eight opponents had winning records, the Bengals (12-4) and Ravens (10-7). However, Pittsburgh may benefit from the schedule makers once again in 2023.
Only five of the Steelers' 14 opponents had winning records this season: the Ravens, Bengals, 49ers (13-4), Jaguars (9-8) and Seahawks (9-8).
With QB Kenny Pickett heading into his second year, little change on the offensive side of the ball could be a good thing as well.
Just because Canada is returning does not mean Pittsburgh will avoid changes, either. For instance, the Buccaneers fired Byron Leftwich as OC, which could set up a potential reunion between him and Pittsburgh.
Whatever additions the Steelers do or don't make this offseason, fans will demand much more offensive production than what they witnessed in 2022.
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