2023 Pittsburgh Steelers. Banged up team loses to Buffalo. Looking ahead to 2024 now (12 Viewers)

[steelers1080]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

Nahh. We can get those at the late rounds of the draft. Let's get another WR

It worked out for the Bengals...

But seriously, now that we've switched to Pickett it doesn't feel like top of the draft is locked in. But if we end up with a top 5 pick, it would be cool to trade down with a QB needy team (assuming we don't go QB) and get an extra 1st. The Steelers have only ever had 2 first round picks twice, 1989 and 1956.

After the QB change it feels like the Steelers went from a 4-5 win team to an 8-10 win team.

 

[humpback]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

Nahh. We can get those at the late rounds of the draft. Let's get another WR

It worked out for the Bengals...

But seriously, now that we've switched to Pickett it doesn't feel like top of the draft is locked in. But if we end up with a top 5 pick, it would be cool to trade down with a QB needy team (assuming we don't go QB) and get an extra 1st. The Steelers have only ever had 2 first round picks twice, 1989 and 1956.

After the QB change it feels like the Steelers went from a 4-5 win team to an 8-10 win team.

This is WILDLY optimistic IMO, I don't really see how they win more than 4-5 games this year.

 

[timschochet]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

Which means they need to find out, right now, if Kenny Pickett is a franchise QB or not. That’s the main goal of this season IMO. If Pickett is the man, then strengthen the team around him, if he isn’t, then get a star QB with a high pick.

 

[steelers1080]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

Nahh. We can get those at the late rounds of the draft. Let's get another WR

It worked out for the Bengals...

But seriously, now that we've switched to Pickett it doesn't feel like top of the draft is locked in. But if we end up with a top 5 pick, it would be cool to trade down with a QB needy team (assuming we don't go QB) and get an extra 1st. The Steelers have only ever had 2 first round picks twice, 1989 and 1956.

After the QB change it feels like the Steelers went from a 4-5 win team to an 8-10 win team.

This is WILDLY optimistic IMO, I don't really see how they win more than 4-5 games this year.

Oh, it for sure is. But it's possible?

• Bills - Lose by a decent margin but Kenny shows flashes. 1-4
• Bucs - Watt returns, close game, 50/50. 2-4
• Dolphins - Tua still out due to scrutiny of league, etc. Watt destroys Bridgewater and Steelers O decent. 3-4
• Eagles - We lose by 2 TDs 3-5
• Saints - They suck right now. Winston throws 3 picks, Steelers win. 4-5
• Bengals - Week 1 was a fluke, only create 1 turnover, lose. 4-6
• Colts - This team is confusing but we sack Ryan a lot. 5-6
• Falcons - Our pass rush is able to get after Mariota and Kenny is improving week over week. 6 - 6
• Ravens - First of 2 matchups, at home, Steelers have figured out the Ravens a bit and our run defense improves with Watt back. 7-6
• Panthers - One of the few teams I thought we'd even beat with Mitch. Dominate. 8-6
• Raiders - Nothing is going their way so far this season, but with a new coach they improve as the season goes on. Adams and Waller destroy us. 8-7
• Ravens - Split with the Ravens. 8-8
• Browns - Rematch against the Browns. Watson is starting but it's the game to save the "no losing seasons" mantra. Tie. 8-8-1

Probably not, but possible. Hopes for improved run D are in Watt returning and Loudermilk returning to the lineup after being out injured. Might be overestimating Loudermilk but run D was a large reason we drafted him and he looked great at times last year. I think a front 5 of Highsmith - Heyward - Adams - Loudermilk/Ogunjobi - Watt could improve as the season goes along. Alualu seems to have lost a bit after the injury and due to age unfortunately.

My main hope for the rest of the season is that they're fun to watch, but I'm not 100% ruling out a chance at the playoffs. We're getting lucky with other teams beating AFC North teams.

 

[humpback]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

Nahh. We can get those at the late rounds of the draft. Let's get another WR

It worked out for the Bengals...

But seriously, now that we've switched to Pickett it doesn't feel like top of the draft is locked in. But if we end up with a top 5 pick, it would be cool to trade down with a QB needy team (assuming we don't go QB) and get an extra 1st. The Steelers have only ever had 2 first round picks twice, 1989 and 1956.

After the QB change it feels like the Steelers went from a 4-5 win team to an 8-10 win team.

This is WILDLY optimistic IMO, I don't really see how they win more than 4-5 games this year.

Oh, it for sure is. But it's possible?

• Bills - Lose by a decent margin but Kenny shows flashes. 1-4
• Bucs - Watt returns, close game, 50/50. 2-4
• Dolphins - Tua still out due to scrutiny of league, etc. Watt destroys Bridgewater and Steelers O decent. 3-4
• Eagles - We lose by 2 TDs 3-5
• Saints - They suck right now. Winston throws 3 picks, Steelers win. 4-5
• Bengals - Week 1 was a fluke, only create 1 turnover, lose. 4-6
• Colts - This team is confusing but we sack Ryan a lot. 5-6
• Falcons - Our pass rush is able to get after Mariota and Kenny is improving week over week. 6 - 6
• Ravens - First of 2 matchups, at home, Steelers have figured out the Ravens a bit and our run defense improves with Watt back. 7-6
• Panthers - One of the few teams I thought we'd even beat with Mitch. Dominate. 8-6
• Raiders - Nothing is going their way so far this season, but with a new coach they improve as the season goes on. Adams and Waller destroy us. 8-7
• Ravens - Split with the Ravens. 8-8
• Browns - Rematch against the Browns. Watson is starting but it's the game to save the "no losing seasons" mantra. Tie. 8-8-1

Probably not, but possible. Hopes for improved run D are in Watt returning and Loudermilk returning to the lineup after being out injured. Might be overestimating Loudermilk but run D was a large reason we drafted him and he looked great at times last year. I think a front 5 of Highsmith - Heyward - Adams - Loudermilk/Ogunjobi - Watt could improve as the season goes along. Alualu seems to have lost a bit after the injury and due to age unfortunately.

My main hope for the rest of the season is that they're fun to watch, but I'm not 100% ruling out a chance at the playoffs. We're getting lucky with other teams beating AFC North teams.

Anything's possible, but when you say "it feels like", that implies that you are expecting it.

I think it's great that they made the QB change, hopefully they stick with it and see what happens, but it doesn't really move the needle much on their expected wins and losses IMO. He turned it over 3 times (almost 4) in half a game, there's likely to be a lot of growing pains here.

 

[steelers1080]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

Nahh. We can get those at the late rounds of the draft. Let's get another WR

It worked out for the Bengals...

But seriously, now that we've switched to Pickett it doesn't feel like top of the draft is locked in. But if we end up with a top 5 pick, it would be cool to trade down with a QB needy team (assuming we don't go QB) and get an extra 1st. The Steelers have only ever had 2 first round picks twice, 1989 and 1956.

After the QB change it feels like the Steelers went from a 4-5 win team to an 8-10 win team.

This is WILDLY optimistic IMO, I don't really see how they win more than 4-5 games this year.

Oh, it for sure is. But it's possible?

• Bills - Lose by a decent margin but Kenny shows flashes. 1-4
• Bucs - Watt returns, close game, 50/50. 2-4
• Dolphins - Tua still out due to scrutiny of league, etc. Watt destroys Bridgewater and Steelers O decent. 3-4
• Eagles - We lose by 2 TDs 3-5
• Saints - They suck right now. Winston throws 3 picks, Steelers win. 4-5
• Bengals - Week 1 was a fluke, only create 1 turnover, lose. 4-6
• Colts - This team is confusing but we sack Ryan a lot. 5-6
• Falcons - Our pass rush is able to get after Mariota and Kenny is improving week over week. 6 - 6
• Ravens - First of 2 matchups, at home, Steelers have figured out the Ravens a bit and our run defense improves with Watt back. 7-6
• Panthers - One of the few teams I thought we'd even beat with Mitch. Dominate. 8-6
• Raiders - Nothing is going their way so far this season, but with a new coach they improve as the season goes on. Adams and Waller destroy us. 8-7
• Ravens - Split with the Ravens. 8-8
• Browns - Rematch against the Browns. Watson is starting but it's the game to save the "no losing seasons" mantra. Tie. 8-8-1

Probably not, but possible. Hopes for improved run D are in Watt returning and Loudermilk returning to the lineup after being out injured. Might be overestimating Loudermilk but run D was a large reason we drafted him and he looked great at times last year. I think a front 5 of Highsmith - Heyward - Adams - Loudermilk/Ogunjobi - Watt could improve as the season goes along. Alualu seems to have lost a bit after the injury and due to age unfortunately.

My main hope for the rest of the season is that they're fun to watch, but I'm not 100% ruling out a chance at the playoffs. We're getting lucky with other teams beating AFC North teams.

Anything's possible, but when you say "it feels like", that implies that you are expecting it.

I think it's great that they made the QB change, hopefully they stick with it and see what happens, but it doesn't really move the needle much on their expected wins and losses IMO. He turned it over 3 times (almost 4) in half a game, there's likely to be a lot of growing pains here.

Yeah, after letting it settle for a day I definitely think the post-Mitch glow is affecting my analysis of the Steelers chances. I'm now looking at the Bills game, while half our defense is injured, and thinking, "You know, it's crazy enough it just might happen." ... They're 14 point underdogs.

 

[belljr]

5-12

 

[fred_1_15301]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

They will be picking high next year and they better take a stud up front (I don’t care if it’s on the defensive or offensive side).

 

[Godsbrother]

As Steelers1080 pointed out the Steelers are 14 point dogs against the Bills. They are the last team since the AFL/NFL merger to not have been 14 point underdogs in a game. If I were a betting man I would take the Bills and give the points.

I am going to the game with a bunch of die-hard Bills fans but I think they'll take it easy on me considering the extent of the beatdown we're likely to take.

 

[steelers1080]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

They will be picking high next year and they better take a stud up front (I don’t care if it’s on the defensive or offensive side).

Let's say hypothetically we end up with a top 6 pick next year (Panthers were 6 with 5-12 record). The OL class does not appear to be a strong one, if 1-2 OTs go before us, but a strong QB remains, would you prefer the Steelers stay at 6 and pick best DL/EDGE, or trade back?

It seems like typically if a team trades up from the middle of the draft they give multiple 2nds and/or 3rds, but if they trade up from the back half they give up an extra 1st.

This team doesn't feel like it's 1 stud player away, but with Heyward getting older and our run D being such a mess, taking a monster DL player at 6 does seem tempting. Lots of mocks are giving us edge rushers due to how poorly we're playing with Watt out. And if the Steelers don't think they can re-sign Highsmith it might make sense.

Though, if we take the Bengals route, at #6, Jordan Addison...

 

[fred_1_15301]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

They will be picking high next year and they better take a stud up front (I don’t care if it’s on the defensive or offensive side).

Let's say hypothetically we end up with a top 6 pick next year (Panthers were 6 with 5-12 record). The OL class does not appear to be a strong one, if 1-2 OTs go before us, but a strong QB remains, would you prefer the Steelers stay at 6 and pick best DL/EDGE, or trade back?

It seems like typically if a team trades up from the middle of the draft they give multiple 2nds and/or 3rds, but if they trade up from the back half they give up an extra 1st.

This team doesn't feel like it's 1 stud player away, but with Heyward getting older and our run D being such a mess, taking a monster DL player at 6 does seem tempting. Lots of mocks are giving us edge rushers due to how poorly we're playing with Watt out. And if the Steelers don't think they can re-sign Highsmith it might make sense.

Though, if we take the Bengals route, at #6, Jordan Addison...

This team can compete next year. When Watt is in, they are one of the better defenses in the league. You add a stud DL on the other side and they suddenly can become elite. I don’t want them to waste Watt’s prime years (like Houston did with the other Watt). So no I’m not trading back.

 

[crushedspirit]

The team lacks depth on D. They lose one guy, and look subpar, which is sad honestly. There are teams playing with multiple starters out on D, and still performing at a high level. This was a known issue prior to the season. The guys they did get are really not looking good, especially Malik Reed.

Needs to be addressed.

 

[bryhamm]

Chris Adamski
@C_AdamskiTrib
Steelers in 2022- With Trubisky as QB
42 drives, 4 touchdowns

With Pickett as QB
3 drives, 2 touchdowns

Didn't Pickett throw 2 INTs on Sunday? How is that possible that he only had 3 drives then?

 

[Godsbrother]

The team lacks depth on D. They lose one guy, and look subpar, which is sad honestly. There are teams playing with multiple starters out on D, and still performing at a high level. This was a known issue prior to the season. The guys they did get are really not looking good, especially Malik Reed.

Needs to be addressed.

Not to make excuses cause you are right but the Steelers defense has more injuries beyond Watt.

 

[Grid71]

Chris Adamski
@C_AdamskiTrib
Steelers in 2022- With Trubisky as QB
42 drives, 4 touchdowns

With Pickett as QB
3 drives, 2 touchdowns

Didn't Pickett throw 2 INTs on Sunday? How is that possible that he only had 3 drives then?

It’s Kenny magic. In 4 drives he managed 2 rushing TD and 3 Interceptions. One TD drive was what.. 3 yards?
First NFL start at -14 vs that Buffalo D is one hell of a challenge. We could see anything from catching Buffalo off guard from a lack of game film to a record number of interceptions. Hopefully it’s the former

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

They will be picking high next year and they better take a stud up front (I don’t care if it’s on the defensive or offensive side).

Let's say hypothetically we end up with a top 6 pick next year (Panthers were 6 with 5-12 record). The OL class does not appear to be a strong one, if 1-2 OTs go before us, but a strong QB remains, would you prefer the Steelers stay at 6 and pick best DL/EDGE, or trade back?

It seems like typically if a team trades up from the middle of the draft they give multiple 2nds and/or 3rds, but if they trade up from the back half they give up an extra 1st.

This team doesn't feel like it's 1 stud player away, but with Heyward getting older and our run D being such a mess, taking a monster DL player at 6 does seem tempting. Lots of mocks are giving us edge rushers due to how poorly we're playing with Watt out. And if the Steelers don't think they can re-sign Highsmith it might make sense.

Though, if we take the Bengals route, at #6, Jordan Addison...

They should draft a QB if they are in the top 6

 

[Godsbrother]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

They will be picking high next year and they better take a stud up front (I don’t care if it’s on the defensive or offensive side).

Let's say hypothetically we end up with a top 6 pick next year (Panthers were 6 with 5-12 record). The OL class does not appear to be a strong one, if 1-2 OTs go before us, but a strong QB remains, would you prefer the Steelers stay at 6 and pick best DL/EDGE, or trade back?

It seems like typically if a team trades up from the middle of the draft they give multiple 2nds and/or 3rds, but if they trade up from the back half they give up an extra 1st.

This team doesn't feel like it's 1 stud player away, but with Heyward getting older and our run D being such a mess, taking a monster DL player at 6 does seem tempting. Lots of mocks are giving us edge rushers due to how poorly we're playing with Watt out. And if the Steelers don't think they can re-sign Highsmith it might make sense.

Though, if we take the Bengals route, at #6, Jordan Addison...

They should draft a QB if they are in the top 6

Unless Pickett has a career ending injury between now and draft day that is not going to happen.

We will see how the season plays out but they need an OT, ILB, NT, S and CB. Hopefully they can address one or two in FA, the rest will need to come through tge draft

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

They will be picking high next year and they better take a stud up front (I don’t care if it’s on the defensive or offensive side).

Let's say hypothetically we end up with a top 6 pick next year (Panthers were 6 with 5-12 record). The OL class does not appear to be a strong one, if 1-2 OTs go before us, but a strong QB remains, would you prefer the Steelers stay at 6 and pick best DL/EDGE, or trade back?

It seems like typically if a team trades up from the middle of the draft they give multiple 2nds and/or 3rds, but if they trade up from the back half they give up an extra 1st.

This team doesn't feel like it's 1 stud player away, but with Heyward getting older and our run D being such a mess, taking a monster DL player at 6 does seem tempting. Lots of mocks are giving us edge rushers due to how poorly we're playing with Watt out. And if the Steelers don't think they can re-sign Highsmith it might make sense.

Though, if we take the Bengals route, at #6, Jordan Addison...

They should draft a QB if they are in the top 6

Unless Pickett has a career ending injury between now and draft day that is not going to happen.

We will see how the season plays out but they need an OT, ILB, NT, S and CB. Hopefully they can address one or two in FA, the rest will need to come through tge draft

They don't need a tackle. Safety, no, and ilb are terrible choices for 1st round picks. CB is a good option, but if Pickett plays bad enough they shouldn't pass on this QB class

 

[Godsbrother]

I know its way to early but they're sitting on the third pick in the draft right now and if not for a long snapper getting hurt they'd have the first.

So a good left tackle incoming. That will help.

They will be picking high next year and they better take a stud up front (I don’t care if it’s on the defensive or offensive side).

Let's say hypothetically we end up with a top 6 pick next year (Panthers were 6 with 5-12 record). The OL class does not appear to be a strong one, if 1-2 OTs go before us, but a strong QB remains, would you prefer the Steelers stay at 6 and pick best DL/EDGE, or trade back?

It seems like typically if a team trades up from the middle of the draft they give multiple 2nds and/or 3rds, but if they trade up from the back half they give up an extra 1st.

This team doesn't feel like it's 1 stud player away, but with Heyward getting older and our run D being such a mess, taking a monster DL player at 6 does seem tempting. Lots of mocks are giving us edge rushers due to how poorly we're playing with Watt out. And if the Steelers don't think they can re-sign Highsmith it might make sense.

Though, if we take the Bengals route, at #6, Jordan Addison...

They should draft a QB if they are in the top 6

Unless Pickett has a career ending injury between now and draft day that is not going to happen.

We will see how the season plays out but they need an OT, ILB, NT, S and CB. Hopefully they can address one or two in FA, the rest will need to come through tge draft

They don't need a tackle. Safety, no, and ilb are terrible choices for 1st round picks. CB is a good option, but if Pickett plays bad enough they shouldn't pass on this QB class

Not going to happen.

They need to get better in the running game and defending the run and they need legitimate starters in the defensive backfield.

But we are only 4 games in so let’s see how things play out. It’s a bit early to start talking about moving on from Pickett after little more than 1 quarter into his NFL career

 

[Bracie Smathers]

...With Pickett as QB - 3 drives, 2 touchdowns

Didn't Pickett throw 2 INTs on Sunday? How is that possible that he only had 3 drives then?

He came into the game.
His first drive ended with an interception.
His second drive ended with a touchdown.
His third drive ended with a touchdown.
The stat that was quoted is correct.
In Trubisky's first 42 drives he only managed 4 TDs.
In Pickett's first 3 drives he managed 2 TDs.
Revisit to see a side-by-side comparison after Pickett gets 42 drives to see how many result in TDs.

 

[bryhamm]

...With Pickett as QB - 3 drives, 2 touchdowns

Didn't Pickett throw 2 INTs on Sunday? How is that possible that he only had 3 drives then?

He came into the game.
His first drive ended with an interception.
His second drive ended with a touchdown.
His third drive ended with a touchdown.
The stat that was quoted is correct.
In Trubisky's first 42 drives he only managed 4 TDs.
In Pickett's first 3 drives he managed 2 TDs.
Revisit to see a side-by-side comparison after Pickett gets 42 drives to see how many result in TDs.

So he was simply stopping after the first 3 drives, instead of including all of Pickett's drives.

 

[steelers1080]

To be fair to Pickett, if the first throw was to Pickens in the exact same situation, he would have made the catch because he would have high pointed the ball.
And if the 2nd pick was thrown to Claypool instead of Muth in the same situation, it would have sailed out of bounds over his head because he'd be 1 ft off the ground with his hands around his waist.

 

[Godsbrother]

A bit of good news: it looks like Minkah will play and there is a shot that Sutton may play as well. Terrell Edmunds was only limited today and may not be available on Sunday.

The Steelers also get a break because Jordan Poyer is out and they were already missing CB Tre'Davious White and safety Micha Hyde.

I still think we get crushed but we look to be a little healthier, at least in the secondary, than Buffalo.

 

[song]

Didn't Pickett throw 2 INTs on Sunday?

3 with an *

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Revisit to see a side-by-side comparison after Pickett gets 42 drives to see how many result in TDs.

Chris Adamski@C_AdamskiTrib
The Steelers haven't punted in any of Kenny Pickett's 6 drives at the helm They punted at the end of 21 of Mutch Trubisky's 42 drives
Emily Giangreco
@EmilyGiangreco
Kenny Pickett's first NFL start leads to the Steelers longest opening drive of the season AND is the only opening drive so far this year to result in points.

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

Revisit to see a side-by-side comparison after Pickett gets 42 drives to see how many result in TDs.

Chris Adamski@C_AdamskiTrib
The Steelers haven't punted in any of Kenny Pickett's 6 drives at the helm They punted at the end of 21 of Mutch Trubisky's 42 drives
Emily Giangreco
@EmilyGiangreco
Kenny Pickett's first NFL start leads to the Steelers longest opening drive of the season AND is the only opening drive so far this year to result in points.

That isn't nearly as good as they are making it out to be. End every drive on a kick is not really the way to play anymore, but there is still some truth to it

 

[fred_1_15301]

I want to hear the Tomlin defenders on the 3rd and 8 call in the Bills red zone. On 3rd and 8 late in the 2nd quarter, team is down 24-3. They're finally driving with a chance to score a TD. You have to be thinking there is no way they're even thinking FG in that situation (especially with the wind). So 2 plays to get 8 yards. The first play is a 4 yard pass. Ok that's fine because that sets up a short 4th down play. But no - Tomlin actually decides to kick the FG there. So what's the defense? I'm trying to figure out what was going on in his head to make such a pathetic decision.

 

[irish eyes]

I want to hear the Tomlin defenders on the 3rd and 8 call in the Bills red zone. On 3rd and 8 late in the 2nd quarter, team is down 24-3. They're finally driving with a chance to score a TD. You have to be thinking there is no way they're even thinking FG in that situation (especially with the wind). So 2 plays to get 8 yards. The first play is a 4 yard pass. Ok that's fine because that sets up a short 4th down play. But no - Tomlin actually decides to kick the FG there. So what's the defense? I'm trying to figure out what was going on his end to make such a pathetic decision.

Tomlin defenders will stand by him til the end. He is so bad at this point it's laughable.

 

[Tin Cup]

When’s the last time the Steelers had a season like this? 2003?

 

[fred_1_15301]

When’s the last time the Steelers had a season like this? 2003?

Tomlin has never had a losing season so yeah it’s been a while. But I think every Steelers fan was expecting this to be a down year. Once Watt went down, they went from bad to awful. With Watt out for another 5-6 weeks, they should be set up nicely to draft in the top 5 next year. They need to focus on beefing up the trenches. I’m going to be fuming if they use that pick on a skill position player.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Tomlin 'planned' to sit Pickett all year, not gonna happen but the timing isn't right to make the switch now.
Browns aren't scary especially without Clowney and the way the secondary has been a dumpster fire the first two games. Jets, also not scary but they face teams that may not be the best for Pickett to start in the next 4 games.

3	Thu	September 22	8:15PM ET	preview				@	Cleveland Browns
4	Sun	October 2	1:00PM ET	preview					New York Jets
5	Sun	October 9	1:00PM ET	preview				@	Buffalo Bills
6	Sun	October 16	1:00PM ET	preview					Tampa Bay Buccaneers
7	Sun	October 23	8:20PM ET	preview				@	Miami Dolphins
8	Sun	October 30	1:00PM ET	preview				@	Philadelphia Eagles
9									Bye Week

I think most would agree that after the BYE would be optimal timing.

On the road, against the Bills was not ideal for his first start.

 

[steelers1080]

Tomlin 'planned' to sit Pickett all year, not gonna happen but the timing isn't right to make the switch now.
Browns aren't scary especially without Clowney and the way the secondary has been a dumpster fire the first two games. Jets, also not scary but they face teams that may not be the best for Pickett to start in the next 4 games.

3	Thu	September 22	8:15PM ET	preview				@	Cleveland Browns
4	Sun	October 2	1:00PM ET	preview					New York Jets
5	Sun	October 9	1:00PM ET	preview				@	Buffalo Bills
6	Sun	October 16	1:00PM ET	preview					Tampa Bay Buccaneers
7	Sun	October 23	8:20PM ET	preview				@	Miami Dolphins
8	Sun	October 30	1:00PM ET	preview				@	Philadelphia Eagles
9									Bye Week

I think most would agree that after the BYE would be optimal timing.

On the road, against the Bills was not ideal for his first start.

Meh, the NFL is a tough place. If you want to succeed you have to beat great teams. I didn't see anything in this game that made me think Pickett has lost any confidence which is the only concern from having him face a tough team. There were positives, though few, from this game, such as Kenny throwing for more yards than Mitch has in any game. But the play calling on offense and defense was poor.

Kenny definitely has room for improvement, but he was also let down at points by Diontae and Claypool.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

... after the BYE would be optimal timing.

On the road, against the Bills was not ideal for his first start.

Meh, the NFL is a tough place. If you want to succeed you have to beat great teams. ..

Not reasonable to expect a rookie QB to beat what is one of the best teams on the road in his first NFL start.
What harm would come of starting Mitch for the four-game stretch?
Steeler fans aren't used to this and expect too much and don't realize how a young rookie QB's confidence 'can' get shattered, and their career ruined. It has happened and can happen.

 

[crushedspirit]

There is no depth on this team, and fans thinking Pickett was going to be the difference maker was a tad too much wishful thinking on their part.

The small ball offense won't change, and needing 52 attempts to reach over 300 yards against a second half prevent D is actually pretty sad, and to come away with only 3 points is a joke for the entire offense. Meanwhile, this is the most expensive D in the entire NFL getting shredded in embarrassing fashion, so let's be real that the current issues go way beyond a supposed saviour at QB.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

The Steelers already have, by far, the most cap devoted to the defense of any team in the league.

Building a dominate defense is a big job but keeping them all together and healthy is for a full season is much harder than building around a star QB.
Steelers went all-in on defense and are gambling on Pickett so that is why I thought they'd wait to start him.
Got to let it play out now but if they wind up with a top pick in next year's QB rich draft...

 

[steelers1080]

I want to hear the Tomlin defenders on the 3rd and 8 call in the Bills red zone. On 3rd and 8 late in the 2nd quarter, team is down 24-3. They're finally driving with a chance to score a TD. You have to be thinking there is no way they're even thinking FG in that situation (especially with the wind). So 2 plays to get 8 yards. The first play is a 4 yard pass. Ok that's fine because that sets up a short 4th down play. But no - Tomlin actually decides to kick the FG there. So what's the defense? I'm trying to figure out what was going on in his head to make such a pathetic decision.

It's similar to when Tomlin decides to punt the ball on 4th down late in games when we're down by multiple scores. It's not a winning mentality and feels a bit cowardly.

I'm still willing to let Tomlin try to improve the team during this season, and believe that the grass isn't always greener, but his decision to bring back Canada feels like a terrible one. I don't know that any OC he'll bring in will be a good one because that does not appear to be his strong suit. Hopefully Khan has influence in that process and can bring in someone innovative. Run-Run-Pass over and over against stacked boxes is ... not great.

Tomlin's ability to corral Brown-Bell-Bryant-Ben on a single team and keep the team on point was incredible in hindsight, I'm willing to give him a shot with this updated roster. He mentioned possible changes, we'll see what happens over the next 4 weeks.

Part of the Steelers' strength has been our steady hand, but right now it sure feels like a weakness.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

I thought Pickett looked good.

Offensive play calling is still very questionable.

Najee looks hurt and indecisive.

Zero pass rush whatsoever.

Secondary banged up.

But our first three picks all look good.

Fire Canada. Let Flores call the D.

 

[steelers1080]

... after the BYE would be optimal timing.

On the road, against the Bills was not ideal for his first start.

Meh, the NFL is a tough place. If you want to succeed you have to beat great teams. ..

Not reasonable to expect a rookie QB to beat what is one of the best teams on the road in his first NFL start.
What harm would come of starting Mitch for the four-game stretch?
Steeler fans aren't used to this and expect too much and don't realize how a young rookie QB's confidence 'can' get shattered, and their career ruined. It has happened and can happen.

I think a lot of people joked about/hoped the Steelers might do something miraculous, but it would have been "miraculous" for them to win. It was a 14 point spread coming into the game which is huge.
There would be 0 benefit to starting Mitch an additional 4 games. At best he wins 1 and we go into the bye 2-6 and then start Pickett after the bye. It just gives Kenny less game reps, less time to develop, and less chance to see what he's really capable of. We need to fully scout him and see what we have because this upcoming draft is loaded with QB talent. If Kenny sucks and is not improving by the end of the season, a la Josh Rosen, and we have a high pick, we need to consider moving on. At this point I've been impressed by Kenny, improvement is obviously needed, but he's showing a lot more promise than I expected immediately post-draft.

If losing a few games is going to "shatter" Kenny's confidence and "ruin" him, then he wasn't meant to be our Franchise QB. If a QB gets injured and never fully recovers, that's one thing, but losing their confidence, swagger, mojo, whatever because of some losses just means they never had what it takes.
Peyton Manning: 3 - 13, started 0-4 and was 1-8 to start his rookie year. Yard per attempt, 6.5.
Aaron Rodgers: 6 - 10, had a 5 game losing streak his first season as starter.
Josh Allen: 5 - 7, first game was a 3-47 loss to Baltimore. Yard per attempt, 6.5.
Kenny Pickett: 0 - 1 so far, Yards per attempt, 6.9.

If Watt returns and our defense gets healthy, and our WRs start catching passes that hit their hands, then we can definitely improve this season. Kenny showed some good decision making and definitely a fire in him yesterday. Calling the switch to Kenny a mistake after 1 game against the SB favorite feels a bit premature.

 

[steelers1080]

I thought Pickett looked good.

Offensive play calling is still very questionable.

Najee looks hurt and indecisive.

Zero pass rush whatsoever.

Secondary banged up.

But our first three picks all look good.

Fire Canada. Let Flores call the D.

Najee started the game looking solid. Then the D was like, Ohhhh, it's run-run-pass every time, and the stacked boxes killed it.
With Watt out and our secondary banged up, I'd have assumed more blitzing would help reduce pressure on the back end. It's like they're still game planning assuming Reed is as good as Watt, when he can't even diagnose a TE rollout.

 

[geneyus]

Routing for Najee, seems like a good dude, but he lacks vision. Every week there are lanes he doesn't see and chooses to run right into the pile. Yesterday he could have run for 15 yards if he'd have bounced a particular play outside but he maddingly ran up the middle for a loss of one. Don't take this as defending the O-line. The run blocking is atrocious.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

I thought Pickett looked good.

Offensive play calling is still very questionable.

Najee looks hurt and indecisive.

Zero pass rush whatsoever.

Secondary banged up.

But our first three picks all look good.

Fire Canada. Let Flores call the D.

Najee started the game looking solid. Then the D was like, Ohhhh, it's run-run-pass every time, and the stacked boxes killed it.
With Watt out and our secondary banged up, I'd have assumed more blitzing would help reduce pressure on the back end. It's like they're still game planning assuming Reed is as good as Watt, when he can't even diagnose a TE rollout.

Oh the play calling is disastrously predictable. I just think his feet aren't quite right or he isn't 100% confident right now.

 

[fred_1_15301]

The Steelers already have, by far, the most cap devoted to the defense of any team in the league.

Building a dominate defense is a big job but keeping them all together and healthy is for a full season is much harder than building around a star QB.
Steelers went all-in on defense and are gambling on Pickett so that is why I thought they'd wait to start him.
Got to let it play out now but if they wind up with a top pick in next year's QB rich draft...

Knowing this organization, I don’t think they are drafting a QB under any circumstances (with the one exception being Pickett has a major injury that impacts his future career)

 

[steelers1080]

Our cap space for 2023 has vanished. We had $140 million available, then we signed Minkah $18 mil (great decision IMO), Diontae $16 mil (looking like an overpay), Bos $5.6 mil, Myles Jack $11 mil (our best ILB), Chuks $13 mil, Daniels $11 mil, Trubisky $10 mil, Cole $7 mil, Wallace $5.5 mil, Witherspoon $5.5 mil, Gunner $2.6 mil, and we still have $4.8 mil dead cap from Tuitt.

We're projected at $199 mil already spent, with a projected cap of $25 mil, meaning we have like $17 million to work with after signing rookies. Though, we probably cut at least Trubisky and Gunner to save $10 million; but then we'll need to get another backup QB since only Pickett will be signed.

I doubt they cut Jack because we're probably going to move on from Bush and Spillane and need some kind of continuity. We definitely need to rebuild our CB corps, but for the Steelers it typically starts with the pass rush / interior D-line getting a push, so the secondary only has to cover long enough for the rush to get pressure. I wouldn't be surprised if the cuts were limited and they just added rookies at DL, S, CB, and LB. Lots of people have been saying OL, but the line does seem to be improving. Continuity might be the best bet there, and add depth.

$25 mil after cutting Mitch and Gunner will need to be spent fixing key positions. Watt and Heyward are the biggest cap eaters, we need them to be healthy and game wreckers at their value. Hopefully Watt comes back healthy sooner than later, but Heyward isn't making the plays we need while Watt is out. Yes, he's doubled, but the talent around him isn't good enough to take advantage of that yet. Here's hoping that Adams, Loudermilk, and Leal can improve and start to make a difference even before Watt comes back.

 

[Godsbrother]

Went to a great tailgate before the game, fans in Buffalo are great and friendly. It was extremely LOUD, even late in the 4th quarter. These fans are hungry. It's been awhile since I've seen a home Steelers game with that kind of enthusiasm. That said while the fans were cool I couldn't wait to leave. It is tough watching your team get destroyed and being the butt of jokes.

I thought Pickett played a good game in a very hostile environment and the wind was really nasty so I can give Boz a pass. The defense was deplorable. The pass rush (if you can call it that) never came close to putting pressure on Allen. Brady should have a field day next week. I think a 1-7 start is not only a possibility but a probability.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

The Steelers already have, by far, the most cap devoted to the defense of any team in the league.

Building a dominate defense is a big job but keeping them all together and healthy is for a full season is much harder than building around a star QB.
Steelers went all-in on defense and are gambling on Pickett so that is why I thought they'd wait to start him.
Got to let it play out now but if they wind up with a top pick in next year's QB rich draft...

Knowing this organization, I don’t think they are drafting a QB under any circumstances (with the one exception being Pickett has a major injury that impacts his future career)

Sigmund Bloom
@SigmundBloom

If Pickett plays well enough to take them out of the range to select a top QB, then it's better than being able to one. And if they can't win at all with him, then that should clarify the organization's decision early in the draft. At least that's what I'm telling myself
Paul Hembekides
@PaulHembo
ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI) says the Steelers are the likeliest team to obtain the No. 1 overall pick. The last time they picked 1-1, they drafted Terry Bradshaw in 1970.

 

[steelers1080]

The Steelers already have, by far, the most cap devoted to the defense of any team in the league.

Building a dominate defense is a big job but keeping them all together and healthy is for a full season is much harder than building around a star QB.
Steelers went all-in on defense and are gambling on Pickett so that is why I thought they'd wait to start him.
Got to let it play out now but if they wind up with a top pick in next year's QB rich draft...

Knowing this organization, I don’t think they are drafting a QB under any circumstances (with the one exception being Pickett has a major injury that impacts his future career)

Sigmund Bloom
@SigmundBloom

If Pickett plays well enough to take them out of the range to select a top QB, then it's better than being able to one. And if they can't win at all with him, then that should clarify the organization's decision early in the draft. At least that's what I'm telling myself
Paul Hembekides
@PaulHembo
ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI) says the Steelers are the likeliest team to obtain the No. 1 overall pick. The last time they picked 1-1, they drafted Terry Bradshaw in 1970.

Holy smokes. If we're 1 it's because we only win 1-2 more games this year. That just feels too low, even with yesterdays blowout. This upcoming class is supposed to be stacked with QBs, if we're somehow 1 but confident in Pickett (seems like it can't be both) then a trade back could potentially net us 2 extra 1sts.

It feels like the main issues are defense and OC, not QB. If we could trade down a few spots and get an extra 1st or two 1sts, that would be a game changer. Imagine trading back with the Lions so they can move to #1 and we get Will Anderson and a top ILB/DT/CB AND an extra 1st in 2024.

That said, I still think we win at least 1 before the bye and a handful after the bye. I think we pick between 6-14 probably. Unless the AFCN somehow turns on its head via injury.

 

[fred_1_15301]

The Steelers already have, by far, the most cap devoted to the defense of any team in the league.

Building a dominate defense is a big job but keeping them all together and healthy is for a full season is much harder than building around a star QB.
Steelers went all-in on defense and are gambling on Pickett so that is why I thought they'd wait to start him.
Got to let it play out now but if they wind up with a top pick in next year's QB rich draft...

Knowing this organization, I don’t think they are drafting a QB under any circumstances (with the one exception being Pickett has a major injury that impacts his future career)

Sigmund Bloom
@SigmundBloom

If Pickett plays well enough to take them out of the range to select a top QB, then it's better than being able to one. And if they can't win at all with him, then that should clarify the organization's decision early in the draft. At least that's what I'm telling myself
Paul Hembekides
@PaulHembo
ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI) says the Steelers are the likeliest team to obtain the No. 1 overall pick. The last time they picked 1-1, they drafted Terry Bradshaw in 1970.

Holy smokes. If we're 1 it's because we only win 1-2 more games this year. That just feels too low, even with yesterdays blowout. This upcoming class is supposed to be stacked with QBs, if we're somehow 1 but confident in Pickett (seems like it can't be both) then a trade back could potentially net us 2 extra 1sts.

It feels like the main issues are defense and OC, not QB. If we could trade down a few spots and get an extra 1st or two 1sts, that would be a game changer. Imagine trading back with the Lions so they can move to #1 and we get Will Anderson and a top ILB/DT/CB AND an extra 1st in 2024.

That said, I still think we win at least 1 before the bye and a handful after the bye. I think we pick between 6-14 probably. Unless the AFCN somehow turns on its head via injury.

Yes if we have 1 overall, I absolutely love the idea of collecting a kings ransom. This team is far from a QB away from competing. Pickett may very well still be the answer. With the product on the field, it's hard to evaluate any QB right now.

 

[Godsbrother]

It seems way too early to be thinking about the #1 pick overall.

 

[karl.Racki]

It seems way too early to be thinking about the #1 pick overall.

They won't get the #1 overall. I in fact still see them winning 6 games this year.. Atlanta, Carolina, Cleveland at home, Split with Baltimore. Wouldn't shock me if they won this weekend.

Pickett will continue to get better, they have weapons and if Watt comes back, they will be better.

 

[steelers1080]

It seems way too early to be thinking about the #1 pick overall.

Fair. Feels a lot like 2019 to me where it looks really bad, but we'll probably somehow end up with 5-8 wins. It is fun to fantasize about pairing Will Anderson with Watt though.

Highsmith will be going into the final year of his contract, and we're probably not paying 2 pass rushers with all the other needs we have.