Steelers Sights and Sounds: First Look at New OC Eddie Faulkner
PITTSBURGH — For the first time on Wednesday, new Steelers offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner took the field in that role a day after the firing of Matt Canada. Faulkner will coordinate the offense throughout the week, while quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan will call plays. Those two collaborated on Wednesday to start the team’s game plan for their upcoming clash with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Players are optimistic that significant changes will come about with Faulkner at the helm. His energy is infectious and something the team will latch onto as they work on the transition. Nothing will be perfect, but even small tweaks could help the team move forward.
“I was shocked just like everybody else when I found out,” receiver Miles Boykin said. “Coach Faulk has been great so far. He’s brought leadership to the offense and is making sure we’re on the same page. I think everyone can appreciate that.”
With the team averaging just 16.6 points per game, the move seems like one that had to be made. Tomlin said he ‘just knew’ that the time was now for them to make that change. He saw the results, and Pittsburgh had to make that change for something to change. But it’s up to the players and new coaches to enact the change, even if that game is a crucial divisional clash.
“It’s challenging because we’re still in it,” Boykin said. “We’re going into a game. We’re not on a bye week or something like that. At the same time, it’s encouraging because I think everybody sees the potential that this team has and where we are.”
Regardless, the Steelers have to get back at it and try to assimilate into any changes on the week before a critical turning point in the season. Their game against the Bengals is about as much of a must-win as it gets when it comes to the crowded AFC playoff field. Pittsburgh’s schedule looks favorable down the stretch, and a win would put them in prime position for a trip to the postseason with the Arizona Cardinals, New England Patriots, and Indianapolis Colts coming up next on their schedule after the Bengals.
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