Sloppy football has returned for the Steelers as they seem to find ways of making a win not as fun with their level of play. That is not to say everyone on the team deserves criticism, but it is obvious that the same scenario as last season is already playing out in front of our own eyes. Both defense and special teams looked good against the Broncos, but the problems on offense remain.
Yes, Arthur Smith has brought a semblance of professionalism to his play-calling to the offense, but the lack of points remains a talking point. Winning ultimately matters in the NFL, and it is ok for a team to point out their struggles along the way.
It is best if you learn from your mistakes after a win, but the Steelers seemed to fail at adjusting in their Week 2 matchup on the offensive side of things.
Steelers offense report card grade: C
It was just another ugly day at the office for Justin Fields and company. Fields didn't turn over the ball, but the coaches don't trust him to attack defenses with his arm as they worry about potential turnovers. The rushing attack was rather bland and shrunk in the second half, which turned this offense into a boulder trying to be pushed uphill.
When it comes to the offensive line, they were ok. They took a step back from last week as a whole, but it could've been worse. At least the offense scored a touchdown this time, but they had many chances to close out the game and couldn't capitalize. They seemed to hope for the running backs or penalties to bail them out, and that almost cost them the game.
Steelers defense report card grade: A+
Somehow the defense had a better performance in Week 2 against the Broncos than they did against the Falcons in the previous game. Perhaps it was them facing off against a rookie quarterback, but the group as a whole was dominant the entire time. It is a tough ask for any defense to play as much as they did in such a high elevation throughout 60 minutes of play.
The pass rush was good for the most part, but they were able to dominate against the run. That allowed the Steeler's defense to make some plays and keep the Broncos out of this one. It truly takes a quality performance by any defense to win a game where your struggling offense only nets 13 points. Big shoutout to Cory Trice on his interception in the back of the end zone to keep the lead.
Steelers special teams report card grade: A
Special teams remain a talking point with the Steelers since their offense struggles to score points. Chris Boswell remained consistent and has put the NFL on notice with his hot start to the season. Coverage on special teams has been good against the Falcons and Broncos. Special shoutout to Ben Skowronek and Miles Killebrew who have been terrific in the first two games for Pittsburgh.
Christian Kuntz made every snap on time and should be included in this grade. Perhaps the biggest question mark was how Corliss Waitman would take over as the Steelers punter for Cameron Johnston, who suffered a season-ending injury last week. Waitman put any worries to bed after he consistently boomed the ball down the field and posted a 53-yard average on eight punts against the Broncos.