4 takeaways from Steelers disheartening loss vs Chargers

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) talks with Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10). Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) talks with Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10). Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 4
Next
Steelers
Los Angeles Chargers running back Austin Ekeler (30) scores a touchdown against Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Taco Charlton (98). Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Steelers depth on both sides of the ball is worrisome

If this game taught us one thing, it’s that we do not have the depth we can count on — both offensively and defensively. Starting with the latter, Pittsburgh’s backup defensive line (minus Cameron Heyward) did a terrible job in this contest.

In addition to allowing Justin Herbert all day to throw the football, they couldn’t collapse on the run to save their lives. Ultimately, they surrendered 159 yards and 2 touchdowns on the ground on 6.1 yards per carry, via ESPN.

In the same way, the secondary really struggled with the losses of Minkah Fitzpatrick and Joe Haden. Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon looked awful when he was on the field, while rookie Tre Norwood was certainly not as comfortable in a full-time safety role.

While the offensive injuries weren’t as bad, losing offensive guard Kevin Dotson for this contest proved to be huge. After backup right guard, J.C. Hassenauer did not return to the game, the Steelers were forced to resort to reserve offensive lineman Joe Haeg (an offensive tackle by trade) to fill the role. On the final drive, Haeg gave up two huge sacks that would ultimately prove to be the final nail in the coffin.

There is no reason to trust the depth on this team in a pinch right now.