Pittsburg, PA
Two things we learned in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ loss to the Indianapolis Colts
INDIANAPOLIS — The Pittsburgh Steelers faced an undermanned Indianapolis Colts team that lost their starting quarterback in the first quarter but could not come back to knock off the Colts. The Steelers now have to address these issues at the surface in a game that exposed many flaws that were there for the first three games.
However, here are the three most important things that we learned from this game that the Steelers should look to fix before their game against the Dallas Cowboys:
There is a Linebacker problem
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense faltered at every level against the Indianapolis Colts, but Colts head coach Shane Steichen zeroed in on Payton Wilson and Patrick Queen and went to work. Their run game calls put those linebackers in conflict often, and the quick game that was so effective underneath against the heavy Cover 3 defense spliced and diced the Steelers all game. Pittsburgh had no answer for Steichen’s attack on the linebackers, and he exploited their coverage rules. Part of that is on Mike Tomlin and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin, who need to adjust to that. Steichen especially attacked the Steelers’ push calls.
However, Wilson and Queen struggled to fit the run and had some ugly reps out of their gaps. On top of that, the two players were beaten in coverage a few times by taking themselves out of the play. The Steelers do need to improve at linebacker, and the team really needs more out of Patrick Queen.
The Run Game Issues
The Steelers’ run game outside of Cordarrelle Patterson and Justin Fields is dead. Najee Harris has not been able to get going, and there are a few reasons why, so let me try to break down what the film showed.
For one, the Steelers keep asking Van Jefferson to insert block and dig out safeties. He has been atrocious at this all season, and it is killing the run game. Their schematics have to adjust, or they need to change personnel because Jefferson can not block well, and it is allowing another defender a free rush.
Another is that the Steelers’ splits have started to become predictable. Teams are lining up eight in the box and blitzing a free man off the edge because of their tendencies, but the Colts could no longer do that in the second half when the Steelers started to throw the ball more.
Najee Harris is just not a good fit for this style of running game. You need instant explosiveness to get downhill and maximize yardage, especially on open cut-back lanes. Harris does not have the instant acceleration for that, and that is why Patterson always maximizes what he gets while Harris’ plodding style, that can work in other schemes, falls flat.
Arthur Smith is not doing a good job of putting his personnel in the best position to succeed. They need to do a lot of self-scouting this week.
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Pittsburg, PA
Steelers WR finally escapes doghouse after one game-changing phone call
Nothing seemed to go in Roman Wilson’s favor while Mike Tomlin led the Pittsburgh Steelers. Whether it was battling through an injury-filled rookie season or struggling to find his footing in his second year, Wilson now finds himself on the roster bubble. He understands this could be his final opportunity to establish himself in Pittsburgh, and a coaching change may have given him a boost.
With Mike McCarthy now serving as head coach of the Steelers, Wilson has a fresh opportunity to reset his trajectory.
Any issues that may have lingered under Tomlin are now in the past. While it is unclear if the young playmaker will immediately build chemistry with Aaron Rodgers, a new coaching staff brings the potential for change. According to McCarthy, Wilson was also one of the first players to reach out after the hiring, which could signal a strong level of motivation moving forward.
“He was one of the first men to reach out. Just clearly ask what the expectation was of him, how I view him.” McCarthy said. “How I saw him fitting in as it rolls. He’s had a great offseason.”
Nothing will be handed to Roman Wilson, as Pittsburgh has completely overhauled its wide receiver group this offseason. DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., and Germie Bernard all appear set for significant roles on offense, which could leave Wilson in a difficult position. However, if he proves during training camp that he deserves playing time, McCarthy will not overlook his performance.
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Roman Wilson might be turning a corner with HC Mike McCarthy
It will be up to Roman Wilson to prove he can be a starting caliber receiver throughout the preseason. If he fails to secure the fourth spot on the depth chart or better, his career could enter a critical stage. Time is quickly running out, but his level of talent is still clear. The hope is that with McCarthy as an offensive-minded head coach, Wilson will be in a better position to succeed.
Reaching a high level this season will not come easily for Wilson.
At times last year, it appeared that Aaron Rodgers did not look his way often in the passing game. There could be some tension between the two, which may have contributed to the Steelers bringing in multiple veteran receivers late last season. If that disconnect still exists, it could become another obstacle for Wilson as he tries to earn Rodgers’ trust and secure a larger role in the offense.
With McCarthy leading the coaching staff, he will look to unlock the full potential of Pittsburgh’s offense. Wilson could play an important role in helping address the unit’s ongoing struggles. Despite the talent ahead of him on the depth chart, his opportunity could grow significantly this season. He will need to earn his place, but there is a clear path for him to succeed.
Outside of Metcalf, Pittman Jr., and Bernard, Wilson should still have an opportunity to make plays this season.
If he is unable to carve out a role during the preseason, he could find himself on his way off the roster sooner than expected. However, the positive remarks from McCarthy should give him a boost of confidence entering what is shaping up to be a make-or-break campaign. This is his final opportunity to prove himself in Pittsburgh.
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Pittsburg, PA
Pittsburg man accused of hotel kidnapping, assault enters plea deal
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Pittsburg, PA
Allegheny County to hold 100th birthday bash for the Andy Warhol Bridge this summer
With America celebrating its 250th birthday this summer, a major landmark in Pittsburgh will celebrate its 100th birthday.
Allegheny County announced a 100th Birthday Bash for the Andy Warhol Bridge on Saturday, June 27, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato made the event official on Friday morning and said it will feature art, music, games, and more.
“Allegheny County’s history is filled with innovation and creativity, beautiful architecture, and talented homegrown artists, and the Andy Warhol Bridge encapsulates all of that in one iconic structure,” said Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato. “I hope everyone will come down for a fun day of art, community, and a shared celebration of our history on June 27.”
Part of the celebration will be art projects hosted and led by the Andy Warhol Museum and the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Local artist Strawberry Luna will also create a special, commemorative poster celebrating the bridge’s history.
The Andy Warhol Bridge is the only bridge in the country to be named for a visual artist, according to Allegheny County.
“As our nation commemorates the U.S. Semiquincentennial, it is fitting that we recognize the oldest of the three Sister Bridges, which represent Pittsburgh’s tradition of innovation, ingenuity, and ‘we can do it’ spirit,” said Andy Masich, president and CEO of the Senator John Heinz History Center. “These iconic bridges, painted in ‘Aztec Gold’ as an homage to the city’s official colors, are symbols of Pittsburgh’s vibrancy, culture, and most importantly, its people.”
Formerly known as the Seventh Street Bridge, it was renamed the Andy Warhol Bridge in 2005 to honor the famous artist as well as the 10th anniversary of the Andy Warhol Museum, which is two blocks away.
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