In the aftermath of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ recent matchup against the Denver Broncos, it’s clear that head coach Mike Tomlin’s approach to the game is influencing offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s play-calling.
After a lackluster Week 1 performance, where the Steelers scored only 18 points against the Atlanta Falcons, fans hoped to see a more aggressive offensive strategy in Week 2. Initially, that’s exactly what they got.
During the first half of the game, quarterback Justin Fields led a strong 12-play, 78-yard touchdown drive, highlighted by a well-executed back-shoulder fade to tight end Darnell Washington. The offense showed promise, combining for 105 yards on their next two possessions despite being hindered by penalties.
However, once Pittsburgh established a 10-point lead in the second quarter, the game dynamics shifted dramatically. In the second half, Smith’s play-calling took a more conservative turn, abandoning the aggressive tactics that had worked so well earlier.
Instead of exploiting the Broncos’ defensive weaknesses, the Steelers reverted to predictable run plays and safe pass options, eliminating any potential for explosive plays. This shift in strategy seemed more aligned with Tomlin’s preference for a conservative approach rather than Smith’s potential offensive philosophy.
The stark contrast between the first and second halves was evident. The Steelers managed only three points in the latter half, which reflected a reluctance to maintain pressure on the Broncos’ defense. This conservative game plan is not new for Tomlin, who has often prioritized minimizing turnovers over maximizing offensive output.
While Tomlin’s strategy may suffice against weaker opponents, it becomes problematic when facing high-powered offenses. Currently, the Steelers are averaging a meager 15.5 points per game, indicating a need for a more dynamic offensive approach.
If Tomlin truly believes in Smith’s abilities, he should empower him to make decisions throughout the game without interference. Although Smith may not be an elite offensive strategist, the disparity in play-calling between halves highlights Tomlin’s influence.
For the Steelers to break free from their cycle of mediocrity, Tomlin must relinquish control over the offense and allow Smith the freedom to develop a more aggressive and adaptable game plan. This change is crucial if Pittsburgh aims to achieve more than just a non-losing season.
In summary, it’s time for Mike Tomlin to step back and let Arthur Smith take the reins on offense, fostering an environment where the Steelers can thrive and consistently put points on the board.