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From the not news, but kinda news, department, the Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to retain offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner moving forward.
This per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler:
Signs point to Steelers retaining OC Randy Fichtner. He still has another year on his contract, the team hasn't indicated any change internally and Fichtner is close with Ben Roethlisberger.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) January 6, 2020
Randy Fichtner was the biggest scapegoat for the season, despite the fact the team was forced to play the vast majority of the season with backup quarterbacks. Fichtner’s offense sputtered down the stretch, averaging just 10 points during a three game losing streak which ultimately ended the Steelers’ season without a playoff berth.
What likely kept Fichtner in town as the predominant play caller is the expected return of Ben Roethlisberger. Roethlisberger and Fichtner have a very close relationship dating back to when Fichtner was Roethlisberger’s quarterback coach. Many feel Fichtner is nothing more than a figurehead when Roethlisberger is under center, merely calling what he knows the franchise quarterback will want to run.
After the 2018 season, many fans wanted defensive coordinator Keith Butler fired, but the Steelers decided to stick with the long-time coach, and most would say their patience paid off with the Steelers’ defense being considered one of the best units in the NFL.
Fichtner’s return shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone, but it doesn’t mean there won’t be coaching changes this offseason in some way. Be sure to stay tuned to BTSC for the latest news and notes surrounding the black-and-gold as they continue on another extremely long offseason.