The Pittsburgh Steelers offensive line, the ‘big boys’ up front, played extremely on the road in a hostile environment. The Atlanta Falcons are known for getting pressure and and being very difficult to beat at home. But, Kelvin Beachum, Ramon Foster, Maurkice Pouncey, David DeCastro, and Michael Adams collectively kept Ben Roethlisberger upright and his jersey white during the entire game.
The Steelers’ offensive line only allowed one sack and led the way to a 398-yard offensive performance. Le’Veon Bell only had 47 yards rushing, but the offensive line gave Roethlisberger enough time to find Bell for 72 yards receiving and two rushing touchdowns. Over the past several weeks, the offensive linemen have been efficient in blocking for extra seconds, allowing Ben to find Martavis Bryant, Antonio Brown and Markus Wheaton down the field, and tight end Health Miller on delayed routes.
The offensive line has progressed this season to the point in which each player has shown the ability to get to the second level in the defense on counter runs, sweeps, and screens pass plays as well. Backups such as Adams, and Cody Wallace have both played as if they were 16-game starters when called upon. Moving forward, the formula is simple. If the Steelers’ offensive line continues to give Roethlisberger time to throw and holes for Bell to run through, the Steelers will continue to win.
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DrGeorge
December 18, 2014 at 7:47 pm
Last year, Kelvin Beacham and Mike Adams both struggled at their positions, and they were roundly criticized by virtually every pundit, including me. So this seems a good place to give credit where it is due. Both of these lineman have improved markedly. Adams still tends to allow defensive ends to get under his pads, and he still needs to improve on his footwork, but he is now a solid RT, and he shows promise of getting even better. Beacham worked hard to master the techniques of a LT. He is a natural OG, forced to play out of position for the team. His main assets are his determination and quick feet. He has made himself into a very creditable LT and spared Ben R. many sacks. Having pilloried them both last year, I thought it only fair to acknowledge the obvious progress these two lineman have made.
Finally, a tip of the hat to Cody Wallace. He receives very little recognition, but he is invaluable. His addition to the roster allowed the Steelers to play well last season after Pouncey got hurt. This year, he fills in at C and OG, as needed, and the line doesn’t miss a beat. Every team needs linemen as versatile as he is. And we should all thank Mr. Colbert too, for getting this acquisition right.