The Pittsburgh Steelers are bad on third down. Every fan knows that. Players and coaches have harped on issues on possession downs and through three weeks, they rank 30th overall on third down.
Dig into the numbers more and – somehow – it gets worse. Not only are the Steelers struggling overall on third down, they’re struggling even in the most makeable situations.
Ten times this year, the Steelers have faced 3rd 1, 3rd and 2, 4th and 1, or 4th and 2. Short-yardage situations. Tailor made for the offense to move the sticks.
Except when you look at the numbers.