The Pittsburgh Steelers are back at training camp, working to bounce back after their first preseason loss, a 20-12 defeat to the Houston Texans. The game was far from their best performance, with the Steelers failing to score in the first half. Although they showed some signs of life in the second half, their comeback efforts fell short. While fans are advised not to panic over preseason results, there are some concerns that need addressing.
Looking ahead, the Steelers will have another opportunity to turn things around when they face the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. For now, they are fully immersed in camp activities. Notably, Russell Wilson, who missed the start of camp due to a sore calf, seems to be getting back on track. Wilson was unavailable for the game against Houston, but Head Coach Mike Tomlin has indicated that he should be ready to play against the Bills.
One of the highlights of practice is the popular seven shots drill. This exercise features a series of goal-line plays designed to test the offense’s execution under pressure. The drill began with Justin Fields targeting Van Jefferson, but their connection fell short as the pass was incomplete. Fields missed as he tried to target Jefferson giving the defense a lead.
Wilson then took over for the next three attempts. His first throw was a fade route intended for George Pickens, but there was noticeable miscommunication, resulting in another incomplete pass.
On his second attempt, Wilson got the ball to Jaylen Warren in the flat, but Warren slipped and failed to convert the play. Wilson’s third attempt ended in disappointment as he was sacked by TJ Watt, a stark reminder of the defense’s prowess. It was a bad three plays with Wilson in charge and the defense went up four to zero.
With Wilson out, Fields resumed the final three plays of the drill. He handed the ball off to Jonathan Ward, who managed to score a touchdown. However, Fields’ subsequent pass intended for Tarik Black was poorly executed, sailing high and falling incomplete with undrafted free agent Beanie Bishop Jr. in coverage.
Fields closed out the drill on a positive note with a quick touchdown pass to Scotty Miller, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and get the ball out fast. Steelers fans noticed that Fields was getting the ball out pretty quick in his limited action against the Texans.
On Sunday, the defense dominated the seven shots drill, winning five to two. The defense managed five stops, while the only two scores from the offense came with Fields at the helm. Though this drill doesn’t provide a complete picture, it highlighted a challenging day for the offense.
Steelers Defense Should Be One Of The Best In 2024
As Tomlin often reminds Steeler Nation, these practices are “Steelers on Steelers,” meaning both sides will have their highs and lows. Despite this being a rough outing for the offense, the performance of the defense was a bright spot. With the Steelers’ defense expected to be among the best in the league for 2024, their playmakers were evident throughout the drill, demonstrating the depth and talent that make them a formidable unit.
As the Steelers continue their preparations, these drills and practice sessions are crucial for refining their strategies and addressing any weaknesses. The upcoming game against the Bills will offer further insights into the team’s progress and readiness for the regular season.
