Steelers Offense Is Better Than We Thought

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers offense had much higher expectations than a year ago, but judging from their first preseason game, they may be even better than advertised.

Now, the sample size is as small as it comes. Kenny Pickett, George Pickens, Diontae Johnson and the rest of the starters played one series. But in 10 plays, the group showcased everything the coaches wanted them to, and more, and one the backups came in, it got even better.

Pittsburgh started their night with a 33-yard touchdown pass from Pickett to Pickens, that capped off a 83-yard drive. The second-year quarterback found his star receiver over the middle, and Pickens alluded a tackle to took it to the house to spark the offense on their opening drive.

This came after three completions to Johnson that looked like he and Pickett finally found the connection they lacked last season. Johnson looks like he'll continue to be one of the most open receivers in the game, and with better chemistry, that's a lethal combination.

Then, the backups came into the game and continued to shine. Anthony McFarland finished the night with three rushes for 18 yards and a touchdown, and looked much more comfortable on the field than in years past.

The fourth-year runner has impressed all offseason, but there was looming concerns that it wouldn't translate to a game. Those worries disappeared quickly after he bounced a run to the outside and took it 14 yards to the endzone.

Calvin Austin took over from there. After missing his rookie season, suffering a lisfranc injury the day before the team's 2022 preseason opener, Austin returned with plenty to prove.

He started the night with a 17-yard jet sweep, followed by another six-yard burst. Then, he took the top off the defense with a 67-yard touchdown bomb from Mason Rudolph, showcasing exactly what makes him so dangerous - his speed.

This offense was supposed to be a meticulous, run-heavy unit. Ground and pound and control the game. Instead, they made big play after big play and utilized many of their flashy young pieces.

Heading into their second preseason game, the Steelers offense should feel good about their quarterback, starting wide receiver, back running backs and speedy depth receiver.

It's early, and the limited reps shouldn't be overlooked, but neither should the immediate success. Pittsburgh has struggled to start hot in recent years, so finding their footing right from the jump and then having other contributors continue that moment is significant.

This offense could be more exciting than we thought.

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