REPORT: The Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator,Arthur Smith Makes Players Run For A Pre-Snap Penalty, Says Justin Fields: ‘No Matter Who You Are’

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ offensive hasn’t been good enough in recent years. Saying it’s been horrible would be an understatement; there were times when it looked simply disgusting. However, it appears that the Steelers made progress this offseason at correcting that.

The most significant change may be Arthur Smith’s appointment as the team’s new offensive coordinator. He has had great success in that job in the past, despite his struggles as a head coach.

He appears to be focused on improving the Steelers offense, as Justin Fields’ recent statements provide insight into Smith’s coaching philosophy.

In a YouTube video, Fields was asked why certain offensive players were seen jogging on the field following plays.

“We try to minimize those pre-snap penalties as much as possible, especially for things we can control,” Fields stated. “When it comes to pre-snap penalties, such as false starts,

players suffer. We strive to limit motions as much as feasible. At the end of the day, it may sound old-fashioned, but if you leap offsides or have a minor hitch before the game begins, everyone, regardless of position, must do a lap.”

This certainly adds a new wrinkle to processes, which will be interesting to follow in the future. Today’s example was Broderick Jones, who appeared to tweak his ankle before sprinting a lap. It’s a little old, but if it helps the Steelers commit less penalties on offense this season, it’s worthwhile.

Smith’s system is new for these most of the players so making sure everyone is jelling correctly is important. Smith’s offense will likely include a lot of motion, and having the timing down on those plays will be crucial. If the players can’t get out of their own way, then the offense will be just as bad as it’s been in the past.

Either the Steelers will commit fewer pre-snap penalties this year or they’ll have the most conditioned team in the NFL. Both options should yield positive results.

We’ll see over the coming days how players adjust to this Smith wrinkle, and whether it’s the younger or older players who struggle with it more.

The Steelers’ offense is mostly younger talent, so instilling good habits in them now is important. Smith has received nothing but praise from players so far and should continue to help this offense grow.

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