In preparation for their preseason finale against the Detroit Lions, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin faces the challenge of striking a delicate balance. With the start of the regular season just two weeks away, Tomlin aims to fine-tune his starting units while giving players vying for roster spots a final opportunity to make their case.

Traditionally, the third preseason game has served as a dress rehearsal for the regulars, allowing them to shake off any rust and get into the rhythm of the game. However, the reduction to a three-game preseason schedule has made it more challenging for players on the bubble to impress coaches in a live game setting.

To address this, Tomlin and his staff have implemented a simulation work week to replicate the intensity of a regular-season game. By adopting this unique approach, he hopes to get the best of both worlds - a final tune-up for his starters and a chance for fringe players to showcase their abilities and secure a spot on the roster.

The Steelers' first-team offense has struggled to put points on the board throughout the preseason. With new additions Russell Wilson and Justin Fields vying for the starting quarterback position, it is crucial for them to acclimate to the team's offensive system. However, a calf injury has kept Wilson sidelined, giving Fields the opportunity to start the preseason opener against the Houston Texans. Unfortunately, the offense failed to produce any points in his three possessions.

In the following week against the Buffalo Bills, Wilson returned to the field but continued to encounter difficulties. The offense once again failed to put any points on the board in his five possessions. Despite these challenges, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith's system has shown promise during practice sessions against the Steelers' defense. The key now is to translate that success into game situations and eliminate costly mistakes such as penalties, sacks, and botched snaps.

Tomlin emphasizes the importance of seeing the progress made on the practice field translate to success in the stadium before moving forward. Cleaning up the offense's execution and showcasing consistency, fundamentals, and big-play ability will be crucial in this final preseason game before the team heads to Atlanta for the regular season opener.

In addition to evaluating players on the bubble, this game also presents an opportunity for regulars who may have faced criticism or struggled in previous outings to put those issues behind them. Coach Tomlin is focused on the response to performance, judging players based on their ability to bounce back from setbacks and deliver strong performances when it counts.

As the Steelers gear up for their preseason contest against the Lions, Tomlin's challenge lies in striking the right balance between fine-tuning the starting units and evaluating players fighting for roster spots. With Wilson back in action and no restrictions on his mobility, the team aims to showcase the fruits of their labor on the practice field and set the tone for a successful regular season.

In the end, the preseason finale serves as the last chance for players to prove their worth and secure a spot on the Steelers' roster. As Tomlin and his staff hash out their game plan, the focus remains on finding the perfect equilibrium between sharpening their starters and giving others the opportunity to make an unforgettable statement on the field.