If there’s one theme that is constant throughout this 2022 NFL season, it’s that the games are ugly. Very ugly. We have the AFC South that no one wants to win, an entire NFC that is filled with overachieving teams simply because of the lack of talent in the conference, and then there’s the AFC North.
So much talent, such little creativity. Football has been around for years, not minutes. How is it that a majority of these teams forget how to coach and execute an effective game plan? How?
The Steelers are arguably the NFL’s worst team
If it wasn’t for the Carolina Panthers, the Steelers would be the obvious choice for the league’s worst team. They are simply overmatched every week, and missing T.J. Watt is only making things worse. For now, the feared Steelers defense has just become another welcome sight for opponents, who also don’t have to worry about an efficient offense. Remember Najee Harris? From rookie sensation to sophomore slump, Harris’ fall from grace represents everything wrong with the 2022 Steelers.
Browns defense continues to hold them back
The Browns apparently cannot stop “Brown-ing,” this season. Jacoby Brissett has thrown an interception in each of the team’s three losses, with each of them coming inside the final two minutes. Although it’s somewhat unfair to criticize Brissett, who has played well for Cleveland this year. The problem lies with a Browns defense that is allergic to finishing games. Cade York’s missed field goals proved costly again, but until the Cleveland defense figures it out, this team will go nowhere fast.
Bengals lack creativity
Can someone please tell Zac Taylor to try being even just a little creative with his offense? Every once in a while? Ja’Marr Chase is running one of the worst route trees you’ll ever see, working almost exclusively on the outside or around the line of scrimmage. It seems unwise for Taylor to keep relying solely on talent to win games for his Bengals, but at least he’s consistent. Perhaps while we have Taylor’s ear, we can also inform him that the “Philly Special” should be a thing of the past. Running that play hardly ever works anymore. Instead of copying off someone else’s test, maybe try drawing your own picture, Mr. Taylor.
Justin Tucker saves the Ravens
Perhaps there is no greater advantage than having a great kicker in the NFL. Sure, the obvious answers are quarterback and maybe edge rusher, but a great kicker can make life so much easier for everyone. For example, a struggling offense could still put points on the board and the defense won’t be put in bad field position if the kicker consistently converts. Justin Tucker is that guy for the Ravens. Tucker’s career has aged like a fine wine, and Mr. Reliable was there once again when the team needed him most. John Harbaugh’s seat got a little cooler on Sunday night and none of that was because of the cooler October weather. The Ravens snapped their home losing streak and got back on track with a much needed division victory. Sunday’s game proved to be almost a two game swing in the AFC North race, which could prove to be valuable later in the season.