The Steelers finished up their preseason 3-0 with a win over the Lions Sunday. Here is who stood out and fell short as final roster cuts approach.
The Steelers defeated the Detroit Lions 19-9 Sunday, finishing up a perfect 3-0 record in the preseason. Exhibition records mean very little for regular season success, but it’s always good to come away with a win. For the players, this may be the last game many of them ever play in the NFL. With final roster cuts looming this coming Tuesday, this was their last chance to impress.
The majority of starting spots are already settled, but backup and special team roles were still up for grabs. Even the QB position was still unsettled, making this last game more important than most preseason finales. Let’s start by taking a look at who helped their case with great performances.
Steelers defensive backs, top 2 QBs headline list of studs
Trubisky and Pickett end the preseason strong
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said earlier this week that this game would determine the Week 1 starting QB, but it became pretty clear as the game progressed who had the edge. Mitch Trubisky played the entire first half, finishing 15 of 19 for 160 yards and a score. He looked good despite the continued struggles of his line and running backs, leading the team to 16 of their 19 points.
The fact that Kenny Pickett didn’t get any time with the starters was surprising considering Tomlin’s comments, but he played well once he finally got in. He finished 10 of 14 for 90 yards and lead the only scoring drive without Trubisky. He showed the same things that he had been showing all preseason: great timing, ball placement, and decision-making. Pickett will be ready if called upon, but for now, it looks like he will have to wait.
Steelers pass defense gives Lions fits
Before you comment down below, I already know what you are probably thinking: the Steelers pass defense was great, but it was against two backup QBs. I totally understand that, but even factoring that in it was a great day for the back-end of the defense. They limited Lion’s QBs to a combined 22 of 47 for just 201 yards, including just one touchdown and a pick.
It took until Detroit’s last drive of the game for them to get in the endzone, and even then it was a shovel pass. They combined for 12 passes defensed, and they came from all three levels of the defense. Overall, this is the type of team pass defense that the Steelers desperately need this season.
Pat Freiermuth shows chemistry with Trubisky
Pat Freiermuth looked fantastic in his snaps against the Lions on Sunday, catching three passes for 45 yards. One of those was a beautiful 32-yard catch that led to the only touchdown of the game for Pittsburgh. Freiermuth already established himself as a quality player in his rookie season, but now he will have the chance to be even better with a new group of QBs. Both Trubisky and Pickett like to use the middle of the field where Freiermuth will thrive. Look for him to up his production by a decent amount this season.
Steelers run defense and O-line are duds once again
Steelers run defense continues to be a concern
Point blank: the Steelers run defense is still something that could be a huge weakness. Even when the starters were in against Detroit they were too passive, especially Devin Bush. He is the guy that has to be more physical if they want the run defense to be a strength. If he can’t do it, one of the backup players will have to step up.
The depth at linebacker though is full of players with holes in their game, so there’s no guarantee an upgrade is currently on the team. The defensive backs could be in for another rough year trying to help in the run game.
Steelers offensive line continues to disappoint
I should start by saying that this week was not nearly as bad as last week against the Jaguars, but it still left a lot to be desired. The biggest issue was the multiple penalties, with Dan Moore being called for holding twice, Kevin Dotson with a false start, and Chukwuma Okorafor with a hold as well.
The run blocking was largely bad as well, leading to another anemic rushing day. The QBs managed to deal with pressure well, but that won’t be the case every week. The Steelers desperately need this line to at least be average this year, and so far the results have been concerning.