Monday, September 23, 2013
Bears Roll Over Stumbling Steelers: 40-23; London Next Week
The Steelers Disappoint Yet Again + Turnovers Remain A Major Problem
While the Steelers are now 0-3, the fact is when you count their pre-season losses in addition to the tail end of the 2012 season, the Steelers have only won one game out of the last 11. In other words, the problems we've been witnessing this season should surprise no one, even the casual Steelers fan.
The Steelers did show some marginal improvement. While Ben has to shoulder some of the blame for the loss last night, he still managed to throw for 406 yards (26/41). We also witnessed more diversity in their offensive formations. But the fact remains, few NFL teams can survive five turnovers in one game. In the case of the Steelers last night, one of Ben's interceptions (2 total) and two fumbles led to the Bears putting 17 points on the scoreboard. In other words, Ben's improved performance was small consolation with five turnovers including three fumbles.
One of the glaring deficiencies in the Steelers defense is the lack of turnover production.
Regarding play selection, Steelers rushed 34% of the time vs. 66% passing. Total rushing yards were a paltry 80, seven of those by Roethlisberger. At least Antonio Brown lent some optimism to the offense with two TD's and 196 receiving yards. Steelers also improved in first down production with 21 to the Bears 15.
The Steelers have not been 0-4 since 1968. Let's hope the team gets its act together before some Steeler fans decide to sit in a closed garage sucking on their vehicle's tailpipe.
Next Game: London
Steelers meet the Vikings at Wembley Stadium in London on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2013. 1 p.m. EDT
PittsburghSteelers.com, Fox Sports, ESPN