Pittsburgh, PA – The Steelers and the Seahawks will meet on August 13th to officially kick off their 2022 NFL Seasons. Both teams have reshaped their rosters and look very different from this time a year ago. The Steelers have their first questionmark at QB for the first time in 18 years. The Hawks begin this campaign with the likes of Geno Smith and Drew Lock vying for the starting snaps. In this rendition of Superbowl 40 we highlight three keys all Steelers fans should keep an eye on as the game progresses.
Key 1: QB Snap Counts
Throughout camp season, Mitch Trubisky has been QB1. Aside from Mason Rudolph and Kenny Pickett getting some looks with the ones from time to time, Mitch has taken the majority of the snaps with the first team and looks to open Saturdays game as the starter. What Yinzers should keep an eye on is the snap counts from the two behind him. This is the key to seeing the Steelers trust in Kenny. Mitch likely gets a couple drives, but many eyes will be looking at who gets the nod after him, Pickett or Rudolph. This interaction likely tells you the thoughts on the development of Kenny and if the team views him ready to take meaningful snaps. Assuming the rotation goes Mitch-Kenny-Rudolph. It would speak confidence into fans of the Steelers.
Key 2: George Pickens
Everyday is another highlight in camp. Day after day it seems the young WR from Georgia is setting twitter ablaze wether it be a juggling catch, deep ball, or hurdling a defender. The hype around George Pickens is emmence. Aside from the QB situation this is easily the biggest attraction for Steelers fans. “NFL Youngboy” will see plenty targets if the Steelers see it fit to sit Diontae Johnson and Chase Claypool early.
Key 3: Offensive Line
We all know how bad the line was last year. PFF ranking the Steelers 24th last year (Full list). What would be encourging is to see the line get a push. Reports are that Dan Moore is progressing nicely and with the addition of Mason Cole and James Daniels the teams looks to improve. Najee forcing the most missed tackels in all of football last year cannot be a repeat. We can not have him being hit in the backfield and shaking off guys before he reaches the line of scrimmage. Even if the first team is only in for a couple series, they hope to see a solid start from the group up front.