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Steelers offense to be 'faster-paced than ever' in 2013

Why shouldn't the Steelers increase the tempo of their offense in 2013? Ben Roethlisberger wonders that, and with the right personnel packages, it could be the boost this group needs.

By Neal Coolong
Vincent Pugliese-USA TODAY Sport

Tribune-Review reporter Alan Robinson gave a devotion to the number three in a notebook published Sunday.

Under the subhead "Three New Wrinkles," he mentioned the Steelers' offense will be run faster than it ever has before. In his words, not Patriots or Chip Kelly fast, but the pace will be bumped up a few notches.

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been a long-standing advocate of a no-huddle offense, giving him the ability to make decisions at the line of scrimmage, and attack the defense that's on the field continuously.

There are pros and cons to this, like with anything. The depth and versatility of both the offense and defense is the question. Multi-faceted players like Antonio Brown, Le'Veon Bell and Markus Wheaton could spell trouble if the wrong defensive package gets stuck on the field. Wheaton can be utilized in a short or deep passing attack, just as Brown can, and Bell has shown the ability to run, catch and block, giving defenses a hard time basing personnel decisions on his presence.

If the Steelers want to work up-tempo this season - as many teams in the league are now doing - they run the risk of rushed mistakes costing them downs. This ultimately detracts from their time of possession - something offensive coordinator Todd Haley emphasized frequently in 2012.

But with what seems to be a more physical camp, increased fitness will be one of the gains they'll have. If they have the right playmakers on the field, it's a weapon Roethlisberger should be able to use to strong gains.

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