3 reasons why Steelers offense could help their defense in 2020

By Tommy Jaggi | May 27, 2020

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 08: Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers hands the ball off to James Conner #30 during the game between the New England Patriots and the Pittsburgh Steelers at Gillette Stadium on September 08, 2019 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

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TAMPA, FL – SEPTEMBER 24: Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers hands off to running back James Conner #30 during the first quarter of a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 24, 2018 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images) /

Increased time of possession

In football, controlling the clock means keeping opposing defenses on their heals and giving your own defense ample time to rest in between positions. This was something that a Rudolph and Hodges-led offense was not able to do in 2019.

The Steelers were 26th in the league in time of possession last year, according to Team Rankings. This forced Pittsburgh defenders to play an increased number of snaps and didn’t allow much of a breather in-between possessions.

The value of being able to control the clock in the NFL is something that isn’t valued enough. With a defensive unit full of fresh legs and well-rested players, Pittsburgh has a chance to be even more efficient on defense in 2020.

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