The Pittsburgh Steelers‘ offense was expected to bounce back after Matt Canada‘s departure. But what happened was the absolute opposite. Sunday’s performance against the Colts actually raised some serious concerns. Justin Fields struggled with poor play-calling, leaving fans frustrated and questioning Arthur Smith‘s ability to lead the unit.

Matt Canada’s time as Steelers’ OC came to a screeching halt due to the team’s offense being neutral. The Steelers ranked near the bottom in total yards (25th) and points per game (22nd). And what more would you expect? Of course, Canada’s play-calling getting roasted.

The writing on the wall? He struggled to adjust, create scoring chances, and develop quarterback Kenny Pickett. The offense was painfully dull too. And after two-and-a-half seasons of mediocrity, Coach Mike Tomlin had seen enough. Canada got the boot, making way for Arthur Smith to take the reins. But it seems like Smith’s play-calling hasn’t exactly lit it up either.

Add to that the Sunday game. Yeah, that didn’t help either. Fields‘ decision-making has been a recurring issue, as noted by @NFL_Rob. “This is the kind of play that Justin Fields simply can’t make. That decision-making marred his Bears film and hasn’t shown its head until today.” The quarterback’s inability to step into the pocket and utilize his running ability was evident.

Smith‘s play-calling has been way too predictable. And it’s being criticized as well. Why? This has been leading to Fields facing consistent pressure. And the fans expected that with Smith at the helm, there’d be some improvement. But the opposite has occurred.

Fields’ funk: What’s holding him back?

Justin Fields’ performance against the Colts was not what we expected from him. His potential and this performance were way like the sky and earth. A huge difference. With 312 passing yards and nil interceptions, he failed to impress. Fields’ struggles can be attributed to Smith’s play-calling, but he also shares responsibility.

@FarabaughFB tweeted, “Disaster class from Smith in the play-calling department in this game. OL has not played well nor anyone else on offense, but he has hung them out to dry on a lot of really awful calls today.” Fields’ stats reflected this, with a 64.7% completion rate and no interceptions. 

@rayfitt1 noted, “This is the Justin Fields from Chicago. He needs to step up into the pocket and take advantage of his running ability. Scurrying backward and doing a Kenny Pickett impersonation isn’t going to get it done.” Fields’ inability to capitalize on his strengths has hindered the Steelers’ offense. Notably, the user even pointed out a parallel with Pickett and his struggling stats last season. Pickett had recorded zero touchdown passes in five of his past six games and six of his past eight games. Additionally, he had 14 career touchdown passes on 680 attempts till November 2023.

Further, @dfsdad7 pointed out, “Arthur Smith is doing a nice Matt Canada impression.” This comparison is unsettling, considering Canada’s firing was due to similar issues. It is high time for Smith to adjust his play-calling to salvage the Steelers‘ season.

Fields’ stats this season are concerning. For the Steelers to succeed, Fields needs his decision-making and execution. With the season hanging in the balance, both must improve for the Steelers to succeed. Will Smith and Fields turn the offense around, or will the Steelers’ season continue to stall?