In the wake of Matt Canada's firing as offensive coordinator, the Pittsburgh Steelers are faced with implementing new plays and strategies as they enter a crucial seven-game stretch. As the team adjusts to the transition, new coordinator Eddie Faulkner and quarterback Kenny Pickett aim to make the offense more efficient and less predictable.

While the foundation of the offensive system remains intact, Faulkner and his predecessor, Mike Sullivan, will look to address several key questions facing the offense. One notable concern is Pickett's reluctance to throw passes over the middle, particularly in the 10-19 yard range. This conservative approach has resulted in limited success, with Pickett ranking low in attempts and completions for such throws. Faulkner and Sullivan will need to find a balance that allows Pickett to take more calculated risks while maintaining a safe passing game.

Another aspect of the offense that requires attention is the running back situation. Jaylen Warren has emerged as a significant contributor, slowly eating into Najee Harris' playing time. With impressive performances over the past three games, Warren has closed the gap between him and Harris in terms of rushing yards. Both running backs have demonstrated their versatility by scoring three rushing touchdowns each, but Warren's higher yards-per-carry average could lead to a larger share of snaps moving forward.

The tight end position has also underperformed this season, primarily due to Pat Freiermuth's five-game absence due to injury. With Freiermuth's return, the Steelers hope to see improved production. Faulkner and Sullivan may prioritize incorporating the tight ends more prominently into the passing game, considering the current lack of targets and receptions from the position.

Wide receivers George Pickens and Diontae Johnson have expressed their dissatisfaction with the passing game's direction recently. Their frustration stems from a decline in targets and production, exemplified by Pickens' limited yards and reduced number of receptions in the past four games. The Steelers will need to find ways to diversify the passing attack and identify a reliable third receiver to support Johnson and Pickens.

Lastly, Faulkner might opt to discard the ineffective jet sweep strategy that Canada favored. Despite repeated attempts, the jet sweep failed to become a significant threat in Canada's tenure as offensive coordinator. Faulkner could shift the focus to utilizing the team's capable running backs, Harris and Warren, while allowing the wide receivers to showcase their ability to catch the ball.

With the new offensive coordinator duo at the helm, the Steelers hope to refresh their approach and rejuvenate an offense currently ranked 28th among NFL teams. While significant changes to the playbook may be impractical at this stage of the season, addressing these key concerns and making subtle adjustments could provide the boost necessary for the team's playoff aspirations.

As the Steelers prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals, all eyes will be on Faulkner and Sullivan to see how they influence the offense and steer the team toward success.