Steelers Must Show Improvement in Third Down Situations

Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Not many positive comments have been used to describe the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense during the team’s 0-3 start to the 2013 regular season.  The unit has not established a running game, the offensive line struggles in the pass-blocking department, turnovers (nine total) have become the “new normal,” and the red zone woes still exist.

In addition to those issues, Gerry Dulac of The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette recently tweeted the following regarding the Steelers’ offense and their lack of success when it has come to converting third downs:

That’s right, readers.  The Steelers’ offense has only converted 27.7% of their third down attempts into first downs through the first 12 quarters of the 2013 regular season.

As sad as it has been to watch, Pittsburgh’s offense has not stayed on the field enough to flip field-position, put points on the board, or even provided their mediocre defense with ample time to rest and regroup.

Thankfully for the Steelers, their offense should benefit from the returns of tight end Heath Miller and running back Le’Veon Bell.

Miller provides Roethlisberger with a competent run-blocker and an athletic safety-valve to find in the middle of the field, while Bell’s presence should add depth and assistance to their ground attack.  Of course, it would not hurt to also see the offensive line hold firm as pass-protectors when “Big Ben” tries to keep the chains moving as well.

If Roethlisberger & co. are unable to improve upon their current third down numbers this weekend though, then they could very well be entering their bye week with an 0-4 record.

Stats & Info. Provided By: ESPN.com, Steelers.com and Pro Football Reference

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