The Steelers pecan pie: Offensive line
Pecan pie is one of the harder things to get right on the Thanksgiving table. A staple dessert for many people, the issue is that there is a lot of technique that goes into making this pie. Plenty of people attempt it, but very few actually make it well. When it is made well, it is one of the best foods on the table. When it isn’t, it is easily skippable.
The Steelers offensive line finds itself in this mold. This group has been a sore spot for the past few seasons, which has caused a considerable turnover and rebuild of this unit. Unfortunately, this group is still very much a work in progress and they haven’t been consistent for this squad.
When they are on it and playing well, there isn’t anything better to watch. The group opens lanes for the rushing attack and allows enough time for the quarterback to make plays. They have had a handful of games where they have played like this, and watching them effectively block is a thing of beauty, just like a great piece of pecan pie is when made well.
Unfortunately, just as often, this group has struggled to generate a lot of push for the offense. This leads to quick and inefficient drives as well as a poor rushing unit. The last thing you want to do after weeks like that is watch the tape and see this group struggle. That is more akin to a bad piece of pecan pie.
When the offensive line gels and works together well, there are few things better to see. They are the highlight of the team and a core reason they win games. When they struggle though, it is a sour note, and one that is easy to call out.