Merril Hoge, an ESPN film analyst and former running back for the Steelers, appeared on WDVE on Wednesday morning. He said some colorful things about the pass catchers for the Steelers.
He was very severe with Pat Freiermuth, a popular figure.
He said on the “DVE Morning Show” that “they might be the worst group of route runners in the NFL.” They give up on routes about half the time. The pass that quarterback Mitch Trubisky made. Freiermuth steps forward and simply gives up. He should be breaking it down inside, but he just gives up.
Hoge has been criticizing George Pickens’ immaturity in recent weeks. However, he really examined the tight ends this time, focusing on both their blocking and receiving prowess.
When you block, our tight ends resemble two turtles mating. Since you’re not obstructing anyone,” explained Hoge. “What are they doing, like, when I’m watching tape?”
In the previous two games, Freiermuth had only six catches for 47 yards. During that time, Darnell Washington had one reception for twelve yards. This year, he has not had more than one catch in a game.
Kevin Patra of NFL.com examined every team fighting for a wild-card spot. He concluded that the Steelers had the most difficult route out of all of them.
The Steelers play at the Colts (7-6), at home against the Bengals (7-6), in Seattle against the Seahawks (6-7), and in Baltimore against the Ravens (10-3) before the regular season ends.
According to Patra, Pittsburgh’s schedule isn’t the hardest in the league right now. “But it’s the hardest of all because of the circumstances surrounding the Steel City club.”