Steelers Game Preview: Players To Watch Vs. The Redskins
By Nick Kelly
2. The Entire Steelers Offensive Line Group
Aug 10, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey (53) looks on from the sidelines against the New York Giants during the third quarter at Heinz Field. The New York Giants won 18-13. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
I know I am cheating on this a little, but to me, the entire offensive line will be very interesting to watch in their second go round.
As far as the starting group goes, I thought they looked quite good. Other than the uncharacteristic sack that Ramon Foster gave up, the starting group looked much more solid than in years past in both the run and pass game. DeCastro looked like the first round pick the Steelers took out of Standford a year ago, and joining him on the right side, Marcus Gilbert had a good performance as well, after getting warmed up a bit.
In the first preseason game against the Eagles in 2012, Mike Adams was given the start at left tackle, and from what we saw, he was not ready to man the spot yet, after getting drafted in the second round out of Ohio State. A year later, Mike Adam’s pass set looked better and he did a solid job in the run game as well. Not a single pressure was given up by Adams.
The backup offensive line was nothing short of terrible. To me, the Steelers were lucky that none of the backup quarterbacks got hurt. With lots of inexperience, the second and third team offensive lines struggled quite a bit against the Giants. After switching a few guys around, it will be very interesting to watch guys like Guy Whimper at left guard, and Joe Long at left tackle. Here’s to hope that the Steelers starting five can stay healthy!