Arthur Smith opened the dictionary, turned to the “P” section, and showed the Pittsburgh Steelers that “play-action” in fact, exists. While it was just a preseason opener and the Steelers’ offense struggled overall, the most refreshing aspect of the game was the heavy and successful use of play fakes.
Three times in Friday’s opener against the Houston Texans the Steelers dialed up play-action and a crossing/over route for a big gain. While we wait for the All-22 view, the TV tape still gives us a good lens of those plays.
1. 20-Yard Completion To Van Jefferson
First and 10 with Fields under center out of 12 personnel, a 2×2 formation with twin receivers to the left.