Steelers Part Ways with Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada
A New Direction for Pittsburgh's Offense
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant change to their coaching staff, relieving Matt Canada of his duties as offensive coordinator. The decision comes after a string of underwhelming performances by the Steelers' offense, which has struggled to find consistency and generate points throughout the 2023 season.
Canada, who joined the Steelers in 2020, had overseen a unit that has been criticized for its lack of creativity and its inability to put up points. The Steelers' offense currently ranks 26th in the NFL in yards per game (280.1) and 27th in points per game (16.6).
"Matt Canada has been relieved of his duties as offensive coordinator," Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said in a statement. "We appreciate Matt's contributions to the Steelers organization and wish him the best in his future endeavors."
The Steelers' offense has been particularly disappointing in recent weeks, scoring just 17 points in their last two games. The team's struggles have been compounded by inconsistent play from second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett, who has shown flashes of potential but has also made some costly mistakes.
With Canada out, the Steelers will turn to a duo of co-coordinators in quarterbacks coach Mike Sullivan and running backs coach Eddie Faulkner. Sullivan, who has been with the Steelers since 2009, has a background in both the run and pass game. Faulkner, who joined the team in 2022, has a reputation for developing running backs.
The Steelers' hope is that the change at offensive coordinator will spark a turnaround for their offense. With a talented group of players at their disposal, the Steelers have the potential to be a dangerous team. However, they need to find a way to put it all together and consistently score points.
Canada's Tenure
Canada's tenure as offensive coordinator has been marked by both highs and lows. In 2021, the Steelers' offense showed flashes of potential, averaging 26.8 points per game over the final nine weeks of the season. However, the unit took a step back in 2022, averaging just 18.1 points per game.
Canada's offensive philosophy has been criticized for its reliance on the run game and its lack of creativity in the passing game. The Steelers have often struggled to stretch the field and put up big numbers on the scoreboard.
The Road Ahead
The Steelers will now turn to Sullivan and Faulkner to try to get their offense back on track. The two coaches have a lot of experience and a good understanding of the Steelers' system. They will need to find a way to maximize the potential of Pickett and the rest of the Steelers' offensive players.
The Steelers have a tough road ahead, but they have the talent to make a run in the playoffs. With a new direction at offensive coordinator, the Steelers hope to find the spark they need to turn their season around.