The Steelers' offense never found an identity to lean on in 2019. And after losing 28-10 in their season finale to the Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium yesterday, that furthered the case for changing things up with the offense in 2020.
But one offensive aspect that did give the Steelers a fighting chance against the Ravens was Benny Snell. So let's take a look at his day:
He finished the game with 91 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. That's an average of 5.06 yards per carry against a Ravens defense that consistently overloaded the box to scare the Steelers away from the run.
But with no Brandon Williams at defensive tackle for the Ravens the Steelers were able to control their front and give Snell opportunities to convert down and distances. Snell struggled early this season at beating defenders in the hole, but he showed growth with how he wasn't deterred.
Brandon Carr goes low on Snell, but that isn't enough to stop him from falling forward and moving the chains:
I've written about how Snell has played the closer role at running back this season. But this was the first time I saw him take on the active role of a starter that contributed throughout the game.
The Steelers were able to challenge the Ravens' loaded fronts at times to give Snell his isolated chances against single defenders. He took advantage of that when given the chance on Sunday. Here's Snell's longest run of the day for 19 yards where he runs through the tackle of Patrick Onwuasor.
Notice how B.J. Finney and David DeCastro blow up the nose tackle by pancaking him into linebacker Josh Bynes. This gives Snell the chance to use his power running style to break loose into the secondary:
Snell was the key factor in the Steelers' only touchdown drive of the game. He accounted for 40 rushing yards in the 75-yard drive. What I noticed about his running was a better decisiveness combined with determination to finish out plays.
Snell hadn't shown the ability to be judicious in picking through gaps while maintaining the hard running style that made him exciting to watch in college. That combination became consistent enough for Snell on Sunday. Watch how he bends his touchdown run out to the edge to get around Jaylon Ferguson:
Snell's vision steadily improved in 2019 and he made a case to be in consideration for the top running back spot in training camp next year. James Conner's frequent injuries have left the Steelers without a dependable starter at the position and Snell could fill that role going into his second year.
But to be taken seriously, Snell needs to get faster. Le'Veon Bell had to shed weight after his first season to improve quickness and speed. If Snell follows that route, he could be the running back for the future.
MORE CLASSROOM
Dec. 27: Finding Duck's balance
Dec. 26: JuJu’s work in progress
Dec. 24: Defense just needs a lead
Dec. 23: Line grows among concerns
