4 things Steelers must do to beat Washington in Week 13

Make it easier to convert on 3rd Down

Based on statistics, we are #1 in the league on 3rd down conversions, but as you watched Wednesday’s game, it didn’t look easy. About every 3rd down attempted, it was 5 yards or more the Steelers needed to convert and it has been like that all season long. We succeed in overcoming the longer yards, but it gives the offense more work to do; maybe use the run game early on instead of relying on the pass. 27% of first downs we use the run which institutes a lower probability to convert on 3rd down when a pass is incomplete on 1st or 2nd.

Don’t get a linebacker matched up on a receiver in coverage

This might have to do with play-calling rather than the performance itself. I like our zone coverage schemes when we know plays will be down the middle and will be stopped. What I don’t like is if we’re in zone with just 2-3 defenders and all receivers are out in an empty set, it forces us to use our linebackers or defensive ends to cover for a pass if they just don’t have the speed. This is just in general and not a knock off the players, but it has happened more often than not. As an example on a 2nd down play against Dallas, Vince Williams was covering their tight end, due to his stature, it is not a strength of his. With more time in training, he can get better, but he’s more of a blitzer than a cover guy.

We’ve been 11 – 0 by getting the job done when it matters, it would make winning easier if these adjustments can be made. Our staff is so experienced they can make it happen. Like I said, Washington has been on a good streak that they can catch Pittsburgh off guard, which concerns me.