Changes in Pittsburgh: New Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith Looks to Inspire a Turnaround
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant change in their coaching staff by appointing Arthur Smith as their new offensive coordinator. Smith, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans in 2019, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to a struggling offense. He will be tasked with revitalizing a unit that has shown considerable issues during the preseason.
Pittsburgh's exhibition games have yielded disappointing results, with losses to both Houston and Buffalo. The issues have been multifaceted, ranging from poor offensive line play to pre-snap penalties and an inability to convert on possession downs. These struggles were glaringly highlighted during the Buffalo game, when the Steelers failed to score under the leadership of Zach Wilson, who is currently atop the team's depth chart over Justin Fields.
Wilson's performance, going 8 of 10 for 47 yards while being sacked three times, has raised questions about the quarterback situation. He did not lead the offense to any scores, further exacerbating concerns. On the other hand, Justin Fields has also faced difficulties in scoring throughout the preseason. Head Coach Mike Tomlin has the final call on the starting quarterback decision, and a choice on whether Wilson will feature in Pittsburgh's preseason finale against Detroit is still pending.
Smith’s stint with the Titans in 2019 offers some hope for Steelers fans. Despite the team's poor preseason showing—managing only 7 points in three games—the Titans rebounded dramatically in the regular season by scoring 43 points in Week 1 and finishing the season ranked 10th in NFL scoring. That year also saw Derrick Henry win his first of consecutive rushing titles, highlighting Smith’s capacity to get the most out of his offensive weapons.
Reflecting on the preseason woes, Arthur Smith stated, "Preseason can distort reality, good or bad. We've all seen it. That's not making excuses. ... That's not our standard. That's not acceptable, but at the same time, would rather go through that now than have that happen Week 1. ... We've got to get out of our own way."
Pittsburgh’s offensive struggles last season culminated in the dismissal of offensive coordinator Matt Canada. Under then-quarterback Kenny Pickett, the starting offense had managed to score touchdowns on each of its five preseason possessions, a stark contrast to this year's performance. The extensive changes in the quarterback room, guided by Smith, reflect a strategic overhaul aimed at building a cohesive and efficient offense.
"I give Russ a lot of credit for going out there. I think a lot of guys in that situation may have tapped out. He hadn't had enough reps. He wanted to go out there," Smith said, acknowledging the effort by his players despite the lack of success on the scoreboard.
Smith adds another layer of intrigue and potential upside to the Steelers' coaching staff. His ability to turn around a struggling offense and mold it into a productive unit will be under close scrutiny as the regular season approaches. His focus on fundamentals, reducing penalties, and ensuring cohesive performance underscores his methodical approach to rebuilding the offense.
For now, Pittsburgh's faithful await the final decision on the starting quarterback, while hoping that Arthur Smith’s influence can inspire a turnaround akin to what he achieved while at the Titans. "That's not a decision I have the burden to make," Smith remarked, emphasizing the collaborative effort required to determine the best path forward for the Steelers' offense.
The upcoming preseason finale against Detroit will be a crucial test, offering one last glimpse of the Steelers' capability before the real battles begin. Whether it’s Wilson, Fields, or a blend of both leading the charge, Pittsburgh will be looking for signs that their offensive struggles are behind them, with eyes firmly fixed on replicating a turnaround similar to Smith’s previous successes.