NFL referee Clay Martin. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Steelers offensive line in for rude awakening after unfortunate Week 7 news

Originally posted on Steeler Nation | By Parker Abate | Last updated Oct 15, 2025 12:26 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers are off to a great start in the 2025 season, sitting atop the AFC North with a record of 4-1. They'll look to continue that against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 7.

In Week 6, the franchise dominated the Cleveland Browns for the majority of the contest, and the lack of game-wrecking from Myles Garrett was notable. Pat Meyer's offensive line may have played its best game of the young campaign, something that the fan base has to be excited about.

Despite a relatively stout performance from the Steelers' offense in Week 6, penalties were a bit of a concern for the team as a whole. It was flagged 10 times for a total of 59 yards.

The Bengals defense has played just okay in 2025 to this point, but it will be critical for Pittsburgh's offensive line to build on the good play from the Browns matchup.

One recently announced piece of news will make that a bit harder. The game will be officiated by a crew that won't be afraid to throw the yellow flag on the big men up front. Clay Martin and Co. are set to be on the call.

Referee for Steelers at Bengals @NFLonPrime — Clay Martin
https://t.co/JCMmUXW4VL #PITvsCIN pic.twitter.com/R24PoRGwrR
—  Fᴏᴏᴛʙᴀʟʟ Zᴇʙʀᴀs (@footballzebras) October 14, 2025

Martin and his team have called 17 offensive holdings, 11 illegal formations and 10 false start calls. Head coach Mike Tomlin mentioned after the victory over Cleveland that his coaching staff scouts referees just as they do opposing teams. There will likely be an emphasis on the short week of not trying to get away with too much on the line.

The biggest concern for Pittsburgh shouldn't necessarily be holding, however. Martin has seriously cracked down on illegal formations, with the 11 flags thrown for the infraction being the most in the NFL by six.

Martin and his group also are tied for the most offensive offsides calls, which is a rarity, but has become a little more of an emphasis in recent seasons.

The Steelers' offensive line and receiving corps are not going to be able to get away with a lot, which is why understanding these trends is crucial.

Lastly, Pittsburgh as a whole will be a bit discouraged about Martin calling six games in 2025 with the home team prevailing in four of those matchups. That percentage of just under 67 percent is above the league average of approximately 56 percent. The Steelers have struggled going on the road for Thursday contests for the majority of Tomlin's tenure.

Steelers have to take advantage of an injured Bengals team

Not many teams are being affected the way the Bengals are when it comes to injuries. Joe Burrow going down and being expected to miss roughly three months pretty much stopped their season in its tracks. The only way the franchise can come alive in the AFC North is by upsetting teams like the Steelers, and the officials could play a part on Thursday evening.

This article first appeared on SteelerNation.com and was syndicated with permission.

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