“Iron sharpening iron” became more than a mantra during Pittsburgh Steelers training camp. It’s created an environment that forces players to rise to the occasion, not only for their own benefit, but for the betterment of Mike McCarthy’s team. Drew Allar is making the most of the challenge in a short amount of time.
On Thursday, the former third-round pick thrived during Pittsburgh’s 28-9 preseason win against the Green Bay Packers. Instead of basking in his glory, the rookie immediately uplifted his teammates.
“It wasn’t just me in there,” Allar explained. “I had ten other guys, and then the coaching staff, and obviously with coach McCarthy calling the plays.”
Truthfully, Pittsburgh’s offense operated like a well-oiled machine. Quarterbacks found open wide receivers throughout the evening with ease. The group performed well and appeared comfortable, completing 27 of 33 passes for 314 yards without any turnovers.
It was an outstanding effort by Mike McCarthy’s gunslingers. And a noticeable difference in output compared to preseason performances in previous years. But to ignore Allar’s debut performance would be malpractice.
Especially since fans have yearned to witness an efficient QB performance from a potential franchise gunslinger.
The former Nittany Lion earned 153 passing yards and three total touchdowns in an efficient two-quarter performance. His 76.9 completion percentage was impressive, especially with accuracy being a cause for concern as an incoming prospect.
Drew Allar had a great first impression during his Pittsburgh Steelers' preseason debut
It was a breath of fresh air to witness Allar play with confidence in his debut. He’s identifying his role, and it’s translating to the gridiron.
“For me, football is football no matter what,” Allar admitted. “The adjustment for me at the NFL level came during rookie OTAs. More specifically, with this training camp cycle and going against a great defense every day. I feel like that really mentally prepared me to go out and handle everything.”
That’s music to my ears. Not only did Allar admit he’s progressing under McCarthy’s staff. He also confirmed the team is progressing. As a result, it’s creating an environment where everyone develops.
It’s the formula for a winning football ecosystem. And he is thriving in it.
Past traumas from Pittsburgh’s recent quarterback mistakes scarred a fanbase with high expectations. It caused skepticism when we begged for certainty. But now, it feels like the Steelers are finally cooking with fire. They have a motivated, talented, and focused gunslinger in Drew Allar. And he’s saying and doing all of the right things.
“I think my job as a quarterback is to go out and put up points no matter what the situation is,” Allar confessed. “I think we did a good job at that; it’s a total team effort no matter what.”
McCarthy’s staff accepted responsibility to care for the franchise. Along with that was a commitment to developing its players. It’s refreshing to see Allar thrive during his first NFL test with high confidence. His performance against the Green Bay Packers demonstrates his work ethic and hunger to succeed.
I believe the youngster has a high ceiling and will only continue to improve while under McCarthy’s and Aaron Rodgers tutelage. He’s already turning heads, and the season is barely underway.
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