Arthur Smith Offensive Coordinator | Pittsburgh Steelers Website
Arthur Smith Offensive Coordinator | Pittsburgh Steelers Website
On September 10, several questions were posed to a panel regarding recent events in the NFL.
Rod Keefer from Edmond, OK, inquired about Chris Boswell's punting history. It was revealed that Boswell attended Rice University and punted during his college career. In 2011, he punted once for 38 yards and averaged 40.5 yards on 14 punts in 2012.
Dan Melchior from San Diego, CA, asked about records set by Boswell in a game against Atlanta. According to Steelers PR, Boswell set franchise records by going 6-for-6 on field goals, making three field goals of over 50 yards, and five field goals of over 40 yards. The FOX broadcast noted that Boswell is the most accurate placekicker in NFL history from beyond 50 yards.
Joe Asher from Tampa, FL, sought information on the performance of rookies during the Steelers' opening day win. Troy Fautanu did not play despite being a full participant in practice. Zach Frazier played all offensive snaps at center, while Payton Wilson and Beanie Bishop also contributed defensively and on special teams.
Bill Swanson from Bethlehem, PA, questioned salary cap regulations if a team needed to sign a player due to injury. It was clarified that teams are not allowed to exceed the salary cap and would need to create space through contract restructuring.
Beth Gollmar from Atlanta, GA, asked why the Steelers were penalized for holding instead of Atlanta for roughing the punter when Cameron Johnston was injured. The response indicated that it was judged Miles Killebrew's holding caused the contact with Johnston.
Marlin Cobb from Aliquippa, PA, wondered why Justin Fields is placed under center if uncomfortable there. The response emphasized that certain situations require it for strategic reasons.
Brad Smith from Silver Spring, MD, asked about James Daniels' helmet resembling a Guardian Cap. It was confirmed Daniels wears it for safety reasons with NFL permission.
Daniel Gross from Augusta, WV, speculated on Kenny Pickett returning to the Steelers lineup but expressed skepticism about his commitment to the team.
Bob Wella from Pittsburgh asked why Mike Tomlin does not have an assistant watch replays. The response suggested Tomlin likely has someone advising him but keeps details private.
Robert King from Tilghman, MD questioned Russell Wilson being made captain without proving himself with the Steelers. It was explained Wilson was voted captain by teammates who evidently value his contributions.
Eric Christopher from Phoenix wondered if Roger Goodell and owners were concerned when Kansas City kicked out of bounds during Kickoff Weekend despite new rules intended to enhance kickoff excitement. The response highlighted DeeJay Dallas' 96-yard touchdown return as evidence maintaining excitement under new rules.