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Steelers vs Bengals: 3 Key Matchups to watch in week 12

By Jobe Morrison

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 30: Auden Tate #19 of the Cincinnati Bengals is tackled by Minkah Fitzpatrick #39 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth quarter during the game at Heinz Field on September 30, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 30: Auden Tate #19 of the Cincinnati Bengals is tackled by Minkah Fitzpatrick #39 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth quarter during the game at Heinz Field on September 30, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /
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CLEVELAND, OHIO – NOVEMBER 14: Quarterback Mason Rudolph #2 of the Pittsburgh Steelers is tackled by the defense of the Pittsburgh Steelers, forcing a turnover on downs in the second quarter of the game at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 14, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO – NOVEMBER 14: Quarterback Mason Rudolph #2 of the Pittsburgh Steelers is tackled by the defense of the Pittsburgh Steelers, forcing a turnover on downs in the second quarter of the game at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 14, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

The Offensive Line vs. Themselves

Forget about the Bengals on these next couple of matchups. The Steelers have to address themselves in some areas.

Yes, I get it, the Steelers O-Line hasn’t allowed many sacks this year. If you watch the film though, it doesn’t paint the whole picture.

Yes, I get it, Ben not being there plays a factor into the adjustments on the offensive line. Excuses, excuses at this points.

They must win the battles every week. The lack of running, in particular, falls on them.

Nothing has changed personnel-wise. What is the cause of this struggle? Is it the scheme? Loss of Munchak? Could it even be age?

I point to execution and scheme. The lack of a fullback hurt this running game. Randy has to figure something else out. Whatever repetitive nonsense he is drawing up isn’t working.

When the Steelers do get plays in the run game, there is usually a penalty that follows shortly after. That’s not the rhythm we need to see.

If the Steelers want to even think about a postseason run, it starts with the offensive line alongside their OC.

Execution and scheme will be the key in any game moving forward for the offensive line–and offense.

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