Rivers: Five Takes From Steelers vs Jaguars

 

4.  Ben has to throw quicker and the O-line stop getting in their own way.

Penalties – we’ve heard about them, cursed them and the yellow flags that come as a consequence. Still, they keep getting in the way (on both sides of the ball, so don’t send me hate mail).  The offensive line could benefit from Munchak’s experience but either he just was a better player than a coach or the unit hasn’t bought into what he’s preaching.  They need a leader to step up and take control and command.

Not everyone liked Doug Legursky or Fernando Velasco, but both were the types of vocal linemen the offense needs. They had flaws, as all players do, but they added something the Steelers are missing – dominance and communication. The Steelers have yet to get their O-line to punish defensive fronts (other than David DeCastro earning a flag for defending his own teammate). Where is the fire? Granted, DeCastro was called a bonehead for getting the penalty (not against Jacksonville) but wouldn’t we all love to see our O-line knock a few hefty defensive linemen and linebackers on their butts, legally?

Roethlisberger has developed a nasty habit of holding onto the ball too long. He needs reprogramming.  Sure, sometimes it works well, but typically not so much.  Everyone sees he does well in the no-huddle. It’s because everything is quicker (thus the hurry up).  Quicker releases keep defenders from zeroing in on the target of passes, makes them more hesitant to converge and commit too quickly.  It also sets an offensive tone that makes players responsible for their assignments and routes.  It would take some of that chip off Roethlisberger’s shoulder about carrying the offense and make the rest of the offense truly accountable.

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