Rashard Mendenhall

Steelers OC Todd Haley’s offense has something for everyone. For QB Ben Roethlisberger, there’s the promise of virtually free rein to run the no-huddle offense. For running backs Isaac Redman and Rashard Mendenhall (when he gets healthy), there’s the promise of a blocking fullback. (Yes, those are two-backs you’re seeing. It’s not an illusion.) For the wide receivers, there are simpler pass routes that don’t require as much reading as they do reacting. For the linemen, there aren’t as many blocking adjustments as before (at least they’re saying there aren’t).

The offense seems designed – paraphrasing Haley – to run when it has to run and pass when it has to pass. Roethlisberger , the NFL’s most-sacked quarterback, should benefit from a system that’s designed to keep him upright, in rhythm and on target all while getting rid of the ball as quickly as possible. Kurt Warner loved the Todd Haley offense, and Haley seems confident Roethlisberger will, too.