Pittsburgh Review

LATROBE, Pa. – Following two consecutive practices in pads and with Friday Night Lights on the horizon, the Pittsburgh Steelers took to the field at Saint Vincent College on Thursday wearing helmets and shells.

"We had a really good work day for a lot of reasons," said Coach Mike Tomlin. "We doubled back to helmets today, and it's really an opportunity to teach and learn about attire. Attire cannot dictate attitude or approach. We've had some really intense practices in pads the last couple of days, but the intensity cannot wane as we wear helmets, and so that was a focus of ours."

Tomlin emphasized that there is still significant work to be done. "Oftentimes, we just shift our focus to skill development and drills that are less attire specific. Today we had an opportunity to introduce two-minute, for example. A lot of productive work being done regardless of attire, but again, it's an opportunity to teach and learn."

A key highlight came during special teams periods focused on kickoffs under new rules set for this season. One session centered on coverage with 11 mobile defensive players such as linebackers and defensive backs practicing one-on-one tackling. The return session involved larger players creating creases for returners due to balls going into the end zone now being considered live.

"That was our first time actually looking at it, and so we'll dissect this tape, we'll teach and learn," said Tomlin regarding these sessions. "We'll make some adjustments in terms of our teaching and coaching and points of emphasis, and we'll get ready for the next opportunity."

Another notable period involved initial repetitions of two-minute drills where the offense started at its 47-yard line with one timeout needing a touchdown to win. The No. 1 offense led by Justin Fields faced off against the No. 1 defense ending with George Pickens making a catch in the end zone. The No. 2 offense led by Kyle Allen concluded with a touchdown pass to WR Jaray Jenkins.

Observations from practice noted Russell Wilson's absence from team drills due to a calf injury; however, his arm strength was evident during successive deep ball completions in 7-on-7 drills.

In the 7-shots drill without running plays due to padless practice conditions, the defense ended its losing streak with a 5-2 victory over seven plays featuring quarterbacks Justin Fields and Kyle Allen.

Coach Tomlin provided an injury update: "Normal bumps and bruises associated with this process... Roman Wilson's got an ankle sprain... characterized as week-to-week at this juncture."