The Pittsburgh Steelers' Week 14 loss to the Miami Dolphins was highlighted by what appears to be more growing tension between quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and offensive coordinator Todd Haley. The two struggled to coincide most of last season and it appears they are even farther apart this year as Roethlisberger was left questioning the game plan following the 34-27 defeat.
The Steelers started the game by running the ball down the throats of the Dolphins. Le'Veon Bell was all over the field. He was given the ball eight times during a 12-play touchdown drive. The formula was working and working well. That was until the Steelers began to focus more on the passing game, allowing the Dolphins to make a comeback. When asked why the team drifted away from the successful run game, Roethlisberger responded saying, "No idea. Coach Haley's over there. You can ask him."
So clearly the quarterback is unhappy. Bell took a similar reaction after finishing the game with 15 carries. He looked like the player to get the game ball until the Steelers stopped using him as the game went on. The dispute between Roethlisberger and Haley is just another on the long list between the two. The two's lack of understanding has led to an offense lacking rhythm and focus during games.
With the game coming to a close in the fourth quarter, the Steelers, on their own 10-yard line, opted for three pass plays instead of handing off to Bell. On the fourth down, they went for it and failed to convert. Miami got the ball and the Week 14 win.
Now the Steelers will not be playing football in January for the second year in a row and will likely finish under .500 for the first time since 2003. With that will come plenty of changes whether in the form of players or coaching personnel. Head coach Mike Tomlin has already announced his plans to evaluate every player and coach in the offseason. Anyone underperforming, no matter what their status is, will be at risk of getting cut. It is hard to imagine a Roethlisberger-Haley offense in 2014.
Of course it is not easy having a new coordinator pair with a quarterback that has played 10 years and won two Super Bowls. But, the two do not see eye to eye and Roethlisberger is the face of the franchise. Haley is not. The 5-8 record does not completely fall on the hands of Haley, but he will be the one to take the hit.
