Steelers QB report card: Tomlin must move on from Mitch Trubisky

Mitch Trubisky and the Steelers offense once again failed to score more than 20 points. It’s time to make a change at QB.

Tell me if this sounds familiar: the Steelers offense struggled to move the ball this week as they lost to the Browns 29-17. It feels like it’s been years since the Steelers offense was a true asset and not a hindrance, and the current group has continued the trend. Things were supposed to be different, but the play calling and QB play have torpedoed any chance of that happening.

Mitch Trubisky simply has failed to get it done. There is plenty of blame to be thrown around, so I can’t put it all on him. However, he has proved to be the same player that didn’t earn a second contract in Chicago. That type of QB isn’t good enough to win with the way the offense is being coached. All that being said, let’s break down his performance against Cleveland.

Steelers Trubisky falls flat in the second half

Mitch Trubisky was having his best showing as a Steeler in the first half of Thursday night’s game against the Browns, leading the offense to 14 points. He even completed a deep pass that George Pickens caught in spectacular fashion. Then, the wheels seemed to fall off after halftime.

The offense stagnated once the Steelers stopped running as effectively, forcing Trubisky to carry more of the load. After a long drive to start the second half, their next three possessions were three-and-outs. The defense was gassed by the fourth quarter, and the game slipped away.

The Browns ultimately outscored Pittsburgh 16-3 in the second half. It was a clear example of Trubisky not being able to elevate his teammates, instead falling flat and failing to keep up with the Browns offense. His receivers didn’t always help him (looking at you, Diontae), but he deserves plenty of criticism.

Steelers Trubisky still avoiding the middle of the field

The most frustrating part of watching the Steelers offense with Trubisky is the disregard for the middle of the field. The play calling hasn’t helped of course, but there are plays to be made that he isn’t making. Pat Freiermuth was completely forgotten about until the last drive, and of course two of the biggest pass plays were to him over the middle.

Matt Canada and Trubisky both have to realize how much space is available to them in the middle of the defense. Until one or both of them make an effort to attack that part of the field, the offense isn’t going anywhere. Rookie QB Kenny Pickett meanwhile has shown to be great at using the middle of the field and would at least try to utilize it. If I were making the decisions, I would give the rookie a chance to save the offense before the season is lost.

Grade: C-