In a challenging preseason start, Pittsburgh Steelers center Nate Herbig encountered unexpected difficulties. Despite a strong training camp with minimal snapping issues, his 2024 preseason debut featured a couple of problematic exchanges with QB Justin Fields. Both times, the ball ended up on the ground, but fortunately, the team managed to recover it.
Herbig, showing his leadership and responsibility, admitted fault for the mishaps in his post-game interview.
Nate Herbig: A Veteran’s Responsibility
Taking Ownership
As a veteran player, Herbig demonstrated exceptional team spirit by taking full responsibility for the errors. Although a detailed review of the plays is necessary, initial observations suggest at least one of the mistakes might have been on Fields. Head Coach Mike Tomlin attributed the blame to both players in his post-game remarks.
The First Error
The first mishap occurred during the team’s opening drive. After a 15-yard pass completion to WR George Pickens, the Steelers were in Texans’ territory facing a 1st and 10. Unfortunately, the ball hit the ground and rolled behind Fields. While Fields managed to pick it up and scramble, he was eventually contained and taken down for a 4-yard loss. This sequence turned a promising 1st and 10 into a challenging 2nd and 14, leading to a punt two plays later.
The Second Error
The second exchange issue surprisingly resulted in a positive yardage play. On the first play of the following possession, a similar under-center issue occurred, but this time the ball rolled forward 4 yards until FB Jack Colletto recovered it. This set up a 2nd and 6 situation, although a subsequent sack on third down led to the team’s second punt of the day.
Analyzing the Performance
Sloppy Plays and Penalties
These errors were part of a broader problem throughout the game, contributing to a 20-12 loss. The Steelers struggled with multiple sloppy plays, including six penalties, a missed extra point, and a muffed punt. Additionally, they lost the turnover battle 2-0. Coach Tomlin expressed his frustration during the post-game press conference, emphasizing the team’s hard work and the disappointing results.
Rookie Center Zach Frazier
On a positive note, rookie center Zach Frazier had a commendable performance. He impressed observers with his ability to move defenders in the run game, putting additional pressure on Herbig to maintain his starting center position. Although Herbig had an excellent training camp, he will need to deliver a cleaner performance in the next game against the Buffalo Bills on August 17th.
Key Takeaways from the Game
- Errors and Blame: Both Herbig and Fields shared responsibility for the errors, highlighting fundamental issues that veteran players should not encounter.
- Coach’s Disappointment: Coach Tomlin was visibly disappointed with the team’s overall performance, pointing out the various mistakes and missed opportunities.
- Rookie Performance: Zach Frazier’s strong showing adds a competitive edge to the center position, emphasizing the need for Herbig to step up.
FAQs
What were the specific mistakes made by Nate Herbig and Justin Fields?
Both players were involved in exchange issues under center, resulting in fumbled snaps that were fortunately recovered by the team.
How did Coach Tomlin react to the team’s performance?
Coach Tomlin expressed his disappointment, highlighting the team’s sloppy performance and emphasizing the need for improvement.
Who is Zach Frazier, and how did he perform?
Zach Frazier is a rookie center who impressed with his ability to move defenders in the run game, adding pressure on Nate Herbig to maintain his starting position.
What are the implications of these mistakes for Nate Herbig?
These mistakes put additional pressure on Herbig to improve his performance and secure his starting position, especially with the strong showing by rookie Zach Frazier.
What is the next game for the Pittsburgh Steelers?
The Steelers will host the Buffalo Bills on August 17th, where Herbig will have an opportunity to deliver a cleaner performance.
Conclusion
In summary, Nate Herbig’s preseason debut for the Pittsburgh Steelers was marred by snapping issues that, while recovered, highlighted areas needing improvement. Coach Mike Tomlin’s disappointment was evident, but the strong performance by rookie Zach Frazier adds a competitive element that could drive overall team improvement. As the Steelers prepare to host the Buffalo Bills, all eyes will be on Herbig to see if he can deliver a cleaner and more controlled performance.
