Arthur Smith Gets Rave Reviews for Week 1 Play Calling

PITTSBURGH — New Pittsburgh Steelers Arthur Smith got a rave reviews for his play calling in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons.

Smith was ranked as the third-best offensive playcaller of Week 1 in personnel and market efficiency by Patton Analytics. According to Patton’s data, Smith added 0.53 points over market expectation, the second-best total of any NFL offensive coordinator or play-caller.

New Saints coordinator Klint Kubiak had the best mark at +1.05, followed by Shane Steichen of the Indianapolis Colts at +0.63 and then Smith. Alex Van Pelt of the New England Patriots (+0.33) and Drew Petzing of the Arizona Cardinals (+0.31) rounded out the top five.

Pittsburgh Steelers OC Arthur Smith at practice on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2024. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now

The Steelers defense also got top marks. Teryl Austin was also rated third with +0.59 points, trailing Dennis Allen of the Saints (+0.69) and Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator and former Steelers assistant Brian Flores (+0.68). Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson and Steelers Week 3 opponent, Jesse Minter and the Los Angeles Chargers finished fifth.

It’s interesting that the analytics like Smith’s performance, considering the Steelers’ paltry statistical output. They finished with 270 yards, tied for 20th in the league, and 4.1 yards per play, 26th in the NFL. They also failed to reach the end zone and were 23rd-best with 18 points.

As for the only person whose evaluation matters, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin took a simplistic approach in assessing Smith’s play calling:

“He’s 1-0,” Tomlin said.

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