Arthur Smith Takes the Helm as Pittsburgh’s Offensive Coordinator
The Pittsburgh Steelers recently appointed Arthur Smith as their new offensive coordinator, marking a significant shift as the team seeks to redefine its offensive strategy. Smith, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, brings a fresh perspective to a team grappling with notable preseason struggles.
Smith's tenure with the Titans was marked by both highs and lows. In 2019, his offense managed to score only 7 points over three preseason games, leading to concerns similar to those being voiced in Pittsburgh today. However, that same Titans team went on to score 43 points in their Week 1 regular-season game and eventually ranked 10th in the NFL in scoring. Derrick Henry’s remarkable performance, culminating in his first of consecutive rushing titles in 2019, further bolstered Smith’s credentials.
Challenges in Pittsburgh
The Steelers are experiencing similar woes to those Smith encountered in Tennessee. Exhibition losses to Houston and Buffalo underscored a series of issues, notably poor offensive line play, pre-snap penalties, and an inability to convert on possession downs. This has caused concern among fans and pundits alike.
Zach Wilson, currently leading the depth chart over Justin Fields, exemplified these struggles. Although he completed 8 of 10 passes for 47 yards, he was sacked three times and failed to lead Pittsburgh to a single score against Buffalo. Fields, meanwhile, hasn't fared much better, struggling to put points on the board throughout the preseason.
"Preseason can distort reality, good or bad. We've all seen it. That's not making excuses. ... That's not our standard. That's not acceptable, but at the same time, would rather go through that now than have that happen Week 1. ... We've got to get out of our own way," Arthur Smith remarked, demonstrating his awareness of the challenges ahead and his commitment to addressing them.
Decisions Looming Large
Head Coach Mike Tomlin retains the final say on the starting quarterback decision, adding another layer of intrigue as the team prepares for its preseason finale against Detroit. Whether Wilson will play remains undecided, and Smith acknowledged his own limited role in that decision, stating, "That's not a decision I have the burden to make."
The overhaul under Smith’s guidance extended beyond on-field strategy, touching on leadership as well. Last season saw then-quarterback Kenny Pickett leading an efficient offense, scoring touchdowns on each of their five preseason possessions. However, the struggles of the season led to the dismissal of offensive coordinator Matt Canada, highlighting the need for a comprehensive reform.
Building a Cohesive Offense
Smith and his team are focusing on honing the fundamentals, reducing penalties, and delivering a cohesive performance once the games truly count. Emphasizing the importance of game-time replication and readiness, Smith noted the grit of players like Russ: "I give Russ a lot of credit for going out there. I think a lot of guys in that situation may have tapped out. He hadn't had enough reps. He wanted to go out there."
The significant changes to the Steelers' offensive personnel highlight the team's commitment to turning a corner. The stakes are high, but the legacy of Smith's previous successes offers a beacon of hope.
As Pittsburgh gears up for the season ahead, fans will be watching closely to see whether Smith can recreate the magic he wielded in Tennessee. The preseason stumbles may be a prelude to greater things, or indicative of more deep-seated issues. Regardless, Arthur Smith's measured approach and focus on fundamentals will be crucial as the Steelers strive to get back on track.