Originally Posted by
BURGH86STEEL
The run game average a better per carry average (4.4) in 2011 then any Steelers team since 2001. The 4.4 average was good enough for 9th in the league. The Steeler ranked 8th in rush TD percentage. I wouldn't exactly say the team failed in the run game. Especially, considering the issues the Oline had. It's strange that the coaches don't get credit for the job they did getting the Oline ready to play with the multiple starting Olines they had. IMO, the up and down performance of the offense in the red zone can be traced back to two factors. Number one is the inconsistent play of the QB. Number two the injuries they had on the Oline. For this offense to produce more TD's in the red zone, I believe Ben will need to throw for more TD's.
The last truly and consistently dominant run team that I remember were the 90's Cowboys. I believe the days of the dominant run games as they were known are pretty much over. I think there are a several reasons why it's the case. One, it's difficult for the best franchise RB's to hold up taking the pounding with today's bigger, stronger, and faster defensive players. Two, teams don't need have a dominant run game to score a lot points. Run games that keep defenses honest are good enough. Scoring points is the goal of an offense. Three, all the rules favor passing the football. Below average QB's can have a lot of success on the right team with the passing rules the way they are structured. Four, defensive players are out gunned facing today's overall offensive talent and athletes.
I believe that BA wasn't brought back because his relationship with Ben became to close. I also believe that Tomlin wanted BA back but was overruled by the ownership. Will be interesting to see how things with Tomlin play out in the future.
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