The Pittsburgh Steelers are betting big on the offensive versatility that rookies Germie Bernard, Kaden Wetjen, and Eli Heidenreich could provide. Pittsburgh finally has the coaching staff to give it a chance to succeed.
Mike McCarthy has the credibility. Even if the merits of his “quarterback whisperer” label can be debated, his overall offensive vision and success cannot. McCarthy knows how to build an offense and utilize talent. Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio comes with a decade of experience and is highly regarded and respected. Minnesota was sad to see him go.
Whether it’s Randall Cobb or Ty Montgomery, McCarthy’s had success with multi-threat players. Not every coach or scheme does. Some staffs don’t know how to efficiently and effectively feed players the ball in designed concepts. Leaning on their strengths without overdoing it while benefiting the entire offense.
Pittsburgh sure has struggled before. The Steelers coaching staff had no method for their gadget or space guys. Ray-Ray McCloud, Ryan Switzer, Dri Archer, Chris Rainey, and even Calvin Austin III – who Pittsburgh first wanted as a space player when he was best used as a downfield speedster. Arthur Smith figured that out, a step above Matt Canada, but he wasn’t as well-versed in handling the players Pittsburgh now has on its roster.
Bernard, Wetjen, and Heidenreich all have talent. All three will need sound, smart concepts to thrive. A little less so from Bernard, a refined route runner, but the Alabama offense created many of his touches. The label certainly applies to Wetjen and Heidenreich. Wetjen only saw even a semi-regular offensive role last season. Heidenreich comes from Navy’s option offense.
What’s the right way to get them the ball? How does Pittsburgh avoid the “flashing red light” Dave Bryan talks about that won’t allow defenses to key in and take away the manufactured touches that make those players effective? How can the Steelers break those tendencies and build off those concepts?
It takes imagination. Creativity. Innovation. All things Pittsburgh’s current staff has. All things Pittsburgh’s previous staff lacked.
That doesn’t mean these players are guaranteed. There’s a level of redundancy, these three competing with each other (especially Wetjen and Heidenreich) with only one ball to go around. Scheming up ways for DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, and the running backs is all key, too.
It’s hard to predict how it will all shake out. But for the first time in a while, there’s reason to believe these players will be used to the best of their abilities and given a fair shake to help the team.
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