PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith said we’ve seen a lot of the basics from the offense in the first couple of preseason games. There is a chance to see a little more Thursday in Carolina.
It’s presumed Mason Rudolph will be the starter with Aaron Rodgers ruled out by Mike Tomlin and Rudolph said there will be a few new looks, potentially plays, things they will try and put in against the Panthers.
“There is a couple new wrinkles, it’s always good to take them from the meeting room to the field and apply them,” Rudolph said. “See what we like. We will then glean through it and see what we do best. What does Aaron like the best? What do the receivers like? And then you build your menu for Week 1.”
Rudolph is pleased with what he’s done in preseason games. He said he’s just trying to move the ball, execute and score points. He is 12-15, 130 yards with a pair of touchdowns and an interception.
As much for himself, Rudolph is happy for those who have gotten extended opportunities this preseason. The first name he mentioned is Roman Wilson, the second-year receiver had two receptions against Tampa Bay last week for 72 yards. It’s the splash so many have been waiting to see from the Michigan star and the offense. But not just him, receiver Scotty Miller (leads team with 6 catches in preseason for 85 yards), tight end Darnell Washington, TD catch for first preseason score this year against Jacksonville.
He said players have taken advantage of opportunities.
Then he cautioned, many starters aren’t playing and the results of these games don’t count. Often it is difficult to really know what the numbers mean.
“It is hard, 2023, I think we had the best preseason of all time,” Rudolph said. “The first and second group scored touchdowns on a lot of their drives. The regular season is a different story. It’s always hard to gauge.”
“I’m confident in our scheme, play-caller and the guys we have around us.”
DK addition
He hasn’t and won’t play in the preseason, but DK Metcalf has impressed. Ben Roethlisberger noted it from the joint practice he watched. Along with his abilities, Rudolph loves the intangibles of the 6’4”, 235-pound receiver.
“DK has done a great job of learning a new offense, coming to a new city,” Rudolph said. “He’s been a joy to work with. He’s ultra-competitive and friendly. You never know, we’ve had some big personalities here at receiver before. Guys that I like, but are flashy, and he’s really not. I appreciate that about him.”