The more things change, the more they stay the same. Despite a new quarterback, coordinator, offensive line, and brand new year, the Pittsburgh Steelers still can’t climb out of their first-down hole. 2024 was another terrible year for Pittsburgh’s offense on first down and arguably worse than the past season.
Per Pro Football Reference/Stathead, the Steelers averaged 4.6 yards per play on first down this season, which ranked last in football. This is a step back from where Pittsburgh finished in 2023, 18th league-wide at 5.3 yards per play. Smith’s mark is worse than what Matt Canada achieved before being fired last season, averaging 5.