Le’Veon Bell is the key to the Pittsburgh Steelers offense. This would still be the case if Ben Roethlisberger were healthy and playing, but even more so now, Bell needs to carry the offense. The Steelers could use some ‘Wildcat’ formation in their games without Roethlisberger, and running back DeAngelo Williams will likely have an increased role. Bell has flourished in the short-passing game since returning from his suspension and will likely see even more passing plays with Roethlisberger out. Recently signed running back Karlos Williams could also see an increased role because of the offense likely running the ball much more.
The Importance of Le’Veon Bell without Ben Roethlisberger
The best thing for offensive coordinator Todd Haley to do would be to run a West Coast offense with Landry Jones. Jones struggled in the preseason and went 0-1 passing in his limited relief of Roethlisberger against the Miami Dolphins last week. The West Coast offense will let Jones spread the field and complete short, easy passes. Bell will likely lead the team in receptions moving forward, like he did against Miami last week. Look for Bell to be used a lot as a slot receiver with Williams playing in the backfield.
Health of the Offensive Line
Possibly the most crucial factor leading to potential success for the Steelers, is the health of the offensive line. Offensive tackle, Marcus Gilbert, and backup center, Cody Wallace, are both currently questionable for this week’s game against the New England Patriots. The Steelers offensive line will need to get healthy, and stay healthy in order for the team to be successful in Roethlisberger’s absence.
Whether the offensive line is healthy or not, expect the Steelers to use two tight ends whenever they’re using the power-running game. While the West Coast offense will help Jones when he needs to throw the ball, the Steelers best chance of success is to run the ball; a lot. Expect a lot of direct snaps to Bell, not necessarily in ‘Wildcat’ form, but more like what the Steelers did at the end of the game against the San Diego Chargers last year, when Bell was able to score the game-winning touchdown on the last play of the game.
Le’Veon Bell highlights vs. San Diego Chargers
Limiting Turnovers
Another reason why running the ball is the Steelers best chance at success, is because running the ball helps lower the possibility of turnovers. Running the ball will also run the clock and help the Steelers rack up their time of possession. Fans may become restless if the running game isn’t getting many first downs, but keeping the defense off of the field so that they can get fresh is crucial. The Steelers defense has struggled lately, and it’s likely due to being on the field too much. Jones should look at what rookie quarterbacks Carson Wentz and Dak Prescott have done. Both have done a great job of limiting turnovers and holding the ball for a long time to keep their defenses fresh, while also tiring out opposing defenses at the same time.
Expectations
With recent reports saying that Roethlisberger will miss four to six weeks, it’s safe to assume that six weeks is more likely than four. If Roethlisberger misses six weeks, it’s not a stretch to think that the Steelers could go 3-2 in his absence, with potential wins over the Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns and Indianapolis Colts. If Roethlisberger misses four weeks, a 1-2 record is believable. The next four weeks hold a game against the Patriots, a bye week and games against the Ravens and the Dallas Cowboys. If the Steelers can just win one out of the next three games, that would leave them at 5-4 if Roethlisberger is able to return for their Week 10 matchup against the Browns.
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