Ray Fittipaldo questions readiness of Steelers running game for season opener

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 7, 2026, 7:18 PM

Last updated Sep 7, 2026

Ray Fittipaldo questions readiness of Steelers running game for season opener
Summary

The Pittsburgh Steelers face uncertainty regarding their ground attack ahead of their season opener against the Atlanta Falcons. Analyst Ray Fittipaldo cited a lack of high-intensity practice and limited preseason focus on the run game as primary concerns. Training camp efforts were largely directed toward evaluating the team's quarterback situation between Drew Allar and Will Howard, leaving the offensive line's run-blocking proficiency largely untested. With Aaron Rodgers entering his first season with the franchise, the Steelers look to establish a balanced offense to support his passing game. The team must now prove its ability to sustain drives and stay ahead of the chains during Sunday’s matchup. Projections for the season rely on the team controlling games through its defense and established rushing attack, both of which remain under scrutiny.

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By the Numbers
  • The Steelers open the season against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.
  • Ray Fittipaldo noted a lack of full-speed tackling practice in the lead-up to the season.
  • Preseason attention was focused on the quarterback competition between Drew Allar and Will Howard.
  • Concerns exist regarding the offensive line's performance in both pass protection and run blocking.
Latest Updates
  • 7:18 PMYahoo SportsRay Fittipaldo Raises Major Concern About Steelers’ Running Game Before Week 1
What they're saying
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The Pittsburgh Steelers have plenty of questions heading into Mike McCarthy’s first season; however, Ray Fittipaldo believes one of them could become a real problem fast. The Steelers spent the preseason sorting through their quarterback situation, and that came with a cost. According to Fittipaldo, the Steelers never really got a true look at their […] The post Ray Fittipaldo Raises Major Concern About Steelers’ Running Game Before Week 1 appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.

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