Same old problems plague Steelers in preseason loss to Redskins

Aug 19, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; A Pittsburgh Steelers free safety Ryan Clark (25) watches from the sidelines against the Washington Redskins in the second quarter at FedEx Field. The Redskins won 24-13. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

While I don’t normally put too much stock in preseason games, I do get nervous when same old problems start to feel, well, normal. And it was, truly, the same old problems that plagued the Pittsburgh Steelers tonight in their 24-13 loss against the Washington Redskins.

Yet again, the offensive line looked sloppy and undisciplined. Not only were offensive lineman guilty of the first four penalties, but they also committed four penalties that cancelled out completed first-down passes. Moreover, the Redskins were just able to find their way through the line far too easily. Redskins nose tackle Barry Cofield was tonight’s particular thorn in the O-line’s side, causing Ben Roethlisberger to rush and even sacking him early in the game. But the line didn’t get much better as Bruce Gradkowski and Landry Jones came in, either.

Now let’s talk about some positives. Jonathan Dwyer looked particularly good, rushing for a game-high 68 yards on 14 carries. He was able to make due with the holes provided to him by the line, and it seems as if he’s going to be a good choice for the Steelers to continue with as the season starts. His fumble was sloppy, but overall I have good feelings about him.

As per usual, I’m going to get really excited about former SEC star Jarvis Jones. We got a good, hard look at him tonight because he played the majority of the game. His forced fumble showed that he is coming along nicely and will be a big contribution to the already aggressive defense.

Moreover, it’ll be interesting to see what happens in the right outside linebacker position. Jason Worilds didn’t play very much, and the time he did play was split between both left and right outside linebacker. Who will win out for the position in the end? My bets are on Jones, but perhaps Worilds’ experience will give him the edge.

What did you think about tonight’s game? Let me know in the comments!