5 observations from Steelers repulsive performance vs. Texans in Week 4
2. Steelers secondary needs to improve
It's hard to defeat teams in the NFL if you cannot defend against the pass. Teryl Austin's defense believed they made the necessary acquisitions to help pad their secondary. Joey Porter Jr. and Patrick Peterson were noteworthy signings and expected to reinvent an elite Pittsburgh secondary.
The Steelers ranked 13th in pass coverage (74.2) - earning four interceptions leading up to Sunday. They were too confident heading into their matchup against the No.1 overall pick and quickly learned he was the real deal.
Dak Prescott and Carson Wentz (2016) were the last rookie quarterbacks to throw 300 yards against the Steelers. C.J. Stroud became the latest gunslinger to earn a spot on the prestigious list. He picked apart one of the most feared defenses in the league and protected the football.
Stroud connected with Nico Collins throughout the game. His seven targets resulted in 168 receiving yards and two touchdowns. He helped his rookie gunslinger complete the upset of the year - sending the Steelers secondary to the board.
1. Matt Canada needs to go
The Steelers have a reputation to uphold. A losing season is not a part of the franchise's image. Mike Tomlin's group is 2-2 during a crucial part of the schedule. Their upcoming games feature tough opponents who know how to score. Points have been hard to come by for the Steelers this season. Matt Canada's offense ranked 22nd in scoring and last in offense (54). Matt Canada's playcalling is doing more harm than good, and it's time to cut ties.
The lack of offensive production puts good teams in horrible positions. It forces defenses to protect the endzone against short-field position. T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick are elite defenders, but cannot delay the inevitable. On Sunday, the Steeler's offense ran pointless plays at impossible moments - allowing the Texans to work a short field. Bad play-calling is killing the Steelers, and it's time to let go of dead weight.
Next. 4 Steelers offseason decisions from 2023 that already look like a disaster. 4 Steelers offseason decisions from 2023 that already look like a disaster. dark
The Pittsburgh Steelers were once among the NFL's elite franchises. Their resilience and toughness instilled fear into their opponents. Now, fans worry their franchise has lost its edge.
All statistics courtesy of pff.com.