The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2023 season has been disappointing on offense and exhilarating on defense. The aforementioned offense, in particular, has drawn significant scrutiny, and the controversial offensive coordinator, Matt Canada, has been a prime target of criticism.
AP
Steelers fan holding a sign that says "Fire Matt Canada."
However, during their Thursday night matchup against the Tennessee Titans, something peculiar occurred as pregame reports stated that Canada would not be in the booth for the primetime game. Canada made his debut on the offensive sideline. For the first time in his coaching career, Steelers fans saw Canada on the sideline, actively engaging with players, and perhaps, just perhaps, forming a deeper connection with the team.
For many die-hard fans of the Steelers, there has been a persistent desire to see Canada removed from his position for well over a year. However, after the game against the Titans, where the run game started to gain traction, and the Steelers offense showed signs of improvement, some optimists began to ponder whether having Canada on the sideline might be the spark that was needed. Nonetheless, it's essential to temper this optimism, given the myriad complexities involved in turning around an NFL offense.
Allen Robinson II's Take on Matt Canada's Presence
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers wide receiver, Allen Robinson (#11) prepares to make a catch during his first season in Pittsburgh at 2023 Organized Team Activities.
During the Steelers' press conferences on Monday, Allen Robinson II, a veteran wide receiver for the team, was questioned about the positive impacts of having Canada on the sideline during the game, as opposed to in the booth.
"I think there is an advantage to it, you know? I mean, he’s there, so he’s talking to us, and we are talking through different things. In the NFL setting, whether he’s upstairs or not, you do have a ton of communication. So, you find ways to maneuver around those things and to be able to communicate from the offensive coordinator to the position coaches."
One of the intriguing aspects of having Canada on the sideline during the game was his visible enthusiasm and vocal support for the team during key moments.
Matt Canada sideline touchdown celebration: “Let’s f—king go.” pic.twitter.com/Rud1LmDBDC
— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) November 3, 2023
This newfound energy in Canada caught the attention of Steelers fans. When questioned, Robinson II acknowledged whether Canada's sideline presence gave the team an emotional boost.
"Yeah, I would say so. Having him down there, being able to talk through things, you know, being able to discuss the run game and pass game, drive to drive, you know, getting stuff corrected and talking about things that may be coming up and stuff like that."
Matt Canada's Future with the Steelers
While the experiment of having Canada on the sideline may offer a glimmer of hope for the struggling Steelers offense, the broader question remains: can Canada turn this offense around consistently?
Despite having exceptional young talent in George Pickens, Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, Diontae Johnson, and several other game-changers, Canada's offensive performance has raised concerns. Sharp Football Analysis delved into Canada's tenure as the Steelers offensive coordinator, and the numbers aren't comforting.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers offense celebrates a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills in Pittsburgh, PA.
Since Canada assumed the role of offensive coordinator, the Steelers have achieved a .539 win rate, with 20 victories in 38 games. While this win rate ranks 14th in the league, the offense's performance metrics are disappointing. The Steelers' offense ranks 28th in points scored, 26th in EPA (Expected Points Added), and 26th in yardage gained.
These statistics would be more palatable if the team lacked offensive talent, but the reality is quite the opposite. Canada has had a wealth of talent at his disposal. Perhaps even more concerning is the fact that, as of now, he has not secured a playoff win as an offensive coordinator.
The Steelers, with their rich history and passionate fan base, aspire to reclaim their championship glory. Whether Canada can play a pivotal role in that quest remains a subject of debate and scrutiny within the Steeler Nation. As the season progresses, the trajectory of Canada's tenure will become increasingly clear, and the potential spark his presence provided may be the turning point or a mere footnote in his Steelers legacy.
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