The NFL has been trending to a pass first league. Football is an ever changing entity, where teams that are willing to adapt freely usually end up on top. Why does it seem that most fans in Pittsburgh are against it?
It seems almost every season in Pittsburgh you will hear “We need to use a full back and run more n’at.”. Pittsburgh has always been known for its running game that wears opponents down. But the game has changed. Just take a quick glance at the last ten super bowl winners, I would argue most of them have a pass heavy offense. A lot of teams are even using short easy passes instead of a running game. I understand teams don’t and shouldn’t just abandon the running game, and I’m not saying they should, but teams that don’t evolve get left behind.
Look at the way Tom Brady runs the Patriots offense. Short quick passes for two to seven yards. Then they throw in a run to keep the defense off balance. It seems to be working out for them and other teams.
Why not here? Why not now?
The Steelers offense is built to throw the ball. They have a 100 million dollar quarterback, a solid catching tight end, multiple talented wide receivers, and suitable backs that can catch the ball. Everyone can agree the running game has been poor, so why not use their strength? The Steelers have been slowly moving towards becoming a passing team since Ben has been quarterback, and statistically he is proving it works. He is having one of the best starts to his career this season, and the offense is doing its part.
Maybe someday the Steelers and the NFL will be a running league again, but now is not the time.
Fans, now is the time to change with the team. Don’t ask for more running plays just because our parents and grandparents say that’s the way the game was played. Cheer for our Steelers and their passing game, because whether you like it or not, it is this teams strength.
