Another week, and another bad performance from Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers offense.
The Steelers followed up a stagnant Week 2 performance with more of the same in Week 3.
The lack of run game continues to rear its ugly head. Najee Harris only notched 40 yards on the ground, forcing the Steelers offense to attack exclusively through the air.
The lack of run game, combined with trailing by double digits, forced Roethlisberger threw the ball 58 times. When asked if the Steelers offense should change what they are doing offensively, Roethlisberger said they need to stay true to who they are.
“We believe in what we’re doing, and we believe in each other,” Roethlisberger said. “We’re not going to quit on it. We’re not going to quit on each other.”
Roethlisberger had two interceptions in the game, one that set up the Bengals inside the Steelers 30 yard line and led to a touchdown.
“I thought [Logan Wilson] was going to the other direction,” Roethlisberger said. “Bad by me.”
The Steelers had ten penalties in the game, several of which negated solid gains offensively.
“Penalties kill you,” Roethlisberger said. “There were some drive killers there. So yeah, it’s huge. Can’t have them.”
In terms of how Ben plans to lead the team after back to back losses, he says he’ll point the thumb at himself.
“I’m not going to point the fingers at anyone else,” Roethlisberger said. “I’m a little stumped by it. I’m frustrated. I’m hurt. I hate losing. I’m never going to quit and give up. … I just hope at some point it starts to click for us.”
What’s Next For Roethlisberger and the Offense?
At some point, the Steelers can’t keep trying to “figure it out.” The time for that is over. They have a matchup against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on the horizon. They follow that up with matchups against the Seahawks and Broncos. None of those games will be easy wins.
If they want to get the season on track, the problems on offense need fixed fast. Otherwise, Pittsburgh will be staring 1-5 in the face and fade fast in a competitive AFC.