The_Man
Footballguy
The public perception seems to be that the Steelers are this tremendous running force that grinds opponents into the ground but have defied all convention in their playoff drive by abandoning the run and going pass first.But in looking at their recent stretch drive that began with Big Ben’s return at Indy on Nov. 28, I see a team that struggles to run the ball, particularly early and in close games. Where they do find some success on the ground is late when they have a lead and are trying to secure victory.Despite playing some very average run defenses (measured by ypc), I only find three games in the past 9 since Ben's return where the Steelers’ average ypc was greater than their opponent’s season average.Vs. Indy, the #28 team in the NFL at 4.4 ypc, the Steelers averaged 3.4 and 2.7 in two gamesVs. Denver, the #17 team at 4.0 ypc, Pitt averaged 2.7 ypcVs. Cincy, the #26 team at 4.3 ypc, Pitt averaged 3.4 and 4.2 in two gamesVs. Minnesota, the #16 team at 4.0, Pitt averaged 3.6The Steelers were impressive vs. Chicago, the NFL’s #8 team in ypc allowed, gaining an average of 4.1 yards on a whopping 46 rushes vs. a team that allowed 3.7 ypc all seasonThe other two times they exceeded an opponent’s average ypc was in getting 4.5 ypc vs. Detroit (#22; 4.2 ypc) and Cleveland, where an 80-yard Willie Parker run fueled the Steelers’ 6.0 ypc vs. the Browns (#23, 4.2 ypc).That’s why I’m so baffled that everyone seems so surprised that the Steelers have come out as a pass-first team in the playoffs. It seems like that’s the only way they can move the ball!I’ve been very impressed with Seattle’s defensive game planning in the playoffs, and I think they’re going to line up and challenge Pittsburgh’s running game to beat their front 7 and key on the Steelers’ passing attack. I just don’t think the Pittsburgh run game is playing anywhere near well enough to sustain scoring drives.