Steelers' weakness at key position isn't being talked about enough
The Pittsburgh Steelers are no different than any other team when it comes to strengths and weaknesses. Some teams have more than others, with the best teams masking any deficiencies and relying on their strengths to take them over the top. So while the Steelers have multiple question marks on offense and parts of the […]
The Pittsburgh Steelers are no different than any other team when it comes to strengths and weaknesses.
Some teams have more than others, with the best teams masking any deficiencies and relying on their strengths to take them over the top.
So while the Steelers have multiple question marks on offense and parts of the defense, one position has seemingly flown under the radar:
Center
Perhaps it's because center is one of the lesser talked about positions in the sport, but outside of left tackle, it is arguably the most prominent position on the offensive line, with great effect on the dynamic of the entire offense.
The center is the only player that will touch the ball every snap regardless of play call or personnel. They have to be quick out of the snap, strong at the point of attack, and heady enough to call protections and handle post-snap stunts and blitzes.
Steelers starting center Mason Cole has struggled in some of these areas, never recording a PFF grade in the 70s.
But what's more worrisome is the lack of depth behind Cole, making the position a potential problem according to Jake Rill of Bleacher Report:
There also isn’t much depth behind Cole at the position. If he gets hurt, Pittsburgh could be in some trouble and be forced to make a move. When looking across the Steelers’ offense, it’s clear center is one of the weaker positions for the unit. -Jake Rill, BR
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So with the roster only dwindling from this point, the Steelers are betting on the 27-year-old center to not only improve as he enters his prime but for Cole to stay healthy.
If not, they could be in a world of trouble.
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Featured image via: © Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports
