The Pittsburgh Steelers aren't in the business of being mediocre. 

Honestly, what many deem a "good" season is often a disappointment amongst Steelers fans.

That's because every year is Super Bowl or bust in the 412, with this year being no different. So if Pittsburgh is going to achieve their lofty goals, here's what they have to improve:

Rushing Offense

It's no secret that Pittsburgh has struggled to generate a solid rushing attack over the past two-three seasons. Despite a second-half surge of momentum, the Steelers finished 16th in total rushing yards in 2022, something they obviously don't want to replicate this fall. 

The good news is, they have taken the proper steps to afford them a better ground game in 2023. They selected the future at left tackle via Broderick Jones, who can step in immediately and improve the run-blocking unit. They also added guard Isaac Seumalo, and have Najee Harris approaching a pseudo contract year in seemingly good health. 



Between that and the obvious want to be a run-first team, this is the most likely improvement for the Steelers. 

More Explosive Plays

If Pittsburgh wants to truly become a serious contender this year, they have to generate more big plays on Sundays. If nothing else, to give breathing room to the rushing attack we just highlighted, but also to ensure the development of Kenny Pickett and a better offensive philosophy. 

For reference, Pittsburgh finished 2022 with a mere 52 explosive plays, finishing tied for 26th in the league. That kind of pedestrian offense won't cut it this year, especially in year two of Pickett's tenure. 

Now, I'm not saying that the Steelers need to become the greatest show on turf, but an offense more capable of creating downfield shots is a goal that seems attainable. 

More Takeaways

The Steelers are going to go as far as their defense takes them in 2023. A unit that finished in the top 10 last season, they can be one of the best, if not the best defense in the league this year. 

But in order to do that, and create more opportunities for the lesser offense, they will need to generate more turnovers. Pittsburgh finished tied for 14th in the league last season, recording 23 takeaways. 

And while that's a notable number, they need to be in the 30s if they want to make a SB run this winter. I'm optimistic that they can achieve that number if not more, with T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Cam Heyward all in different versions of their prime. 



So if the change at corner works as planned, I expect a unit that gets their hands on the football a ton in 2023. 

Steelers training camp battle: Slot Receiver

See which choice has the upper-hand in this important battle

Featured image via: © Jessica Rapfogel-USA TODAY Sports