Pittsburgh Steelers Fact or Fiction: The perfect timing on the schedule edition

The Steelers have so many more questions that have arisen since the team stumbled to an 0-3 start to 2019 and a lot of fans and media have already closed the book on the season and their mind as well. Because of all of this, BTSC anticipates the storylines and issues bold statements regarding each one of them. Let’s take a look and deem them as fact or fiction.

The Eagles dropping of L.J. Fort will spell the end for Donte Moncrief

Fact

When Philadelphia put the inside linebacker Fort on waivers, it immediately meant that the expected third-rounder the Steelers were counting on for Le’Veon Bell signing with the New York Jets would be forfeited. The reason for that is because the number of players signed and lost in free agency would be equal. A way to remedy that problem would be to waive Moncrief, who has disappointed greatly so far in Pittsburgh. I find it hard to believe that a player that was inactive last week due to his poor play in the first two weeks of the season that featured drop after drop, would be a priority to keep around over a valuable third round selection.

If the Steelers start 0-4, Mike Tomlin won’t last the season.

Fiction

It’s not the Steelers style to fire coaches, let alone do it in during the regular season. Despite reports that Tomlin is on the hot seat, It is highly doubtful that the Rooneys would pull the trigger now.

Minkah Fitzpatrick’s impressive debut will calm the naysayers that say that the Steelers gave away too much to obtain the safety.

Fiction

A lot of Steeler fans are gripping over losing what they believe may be a top-five selection and the next franchise quarterback. Fitzpatrick’s stellar debut featuring a forced fumble and an interception while thrilling and promising, won’t erase the single-mindedness of some fans that don’t understand that Fitzpatrick is a known commodity and that his production alone makes him a first rounder seven months early.

Vince Williams is much more valuable than recently given credit for.

Fact

When the Steelers drafted Devin Bush and signed free agent Mark Barron, overwhelming sentiment seemed to surround the Steelers embracing a faster defense with less size. That particular proposal suggested a lot less playing time for Vince Williams. However, the Steelers defense is dreadful against the run and many are longing for the return of No. 98. Williams’ injury takes a big body that excels in stoping opposing rushers out of the lineup. Bush and Barron are struggling mightily in this arena. The Steelers need to see VinnyVidiVici back soon to lock down the middle of the field.

A game plan centered around Mason Rudolph’s abilities and not a recycled one is necessary going forward.

Fact

Randy Fichtner’s unimaginative offense is a definite liability for the Steelers. While it seemed like the Steelers would tailor a plan to Rudolph’s skill set, it is obvious that the team is dusting off Ben Roethlisberger’s game plan. While No. 7 was more of an improvisational quarterback, Rudolph relies on precise reads and routes. Plus, the play action was barely used in the Roethlisberger offense, while the Steelers would benefit from relying on it more. The use of bubble screens are predictable and aren’t taking advantage of No. 2’s talents. If the Steelers would allow Rudolph to wing it downfield early, it could loosen things up for the offense.

Are these statements valid? We will soon see. What matters most is your opinions on the matter. Please state them in the comments below.