[Steelers] Steelers To Use QB Dennis Dixon Around Goal Line?

Shortly after the Steelers drafted quarterback Dennis Dixon, they talked about possibly using him in certain situations this season. In order to do that, they would designate him as the No. 2 quarterback, which means he can move in and out of games with no repercussions. Forget the Wildcat, stick Dixon at quarterback with the ball on the one or two and watch a defense try to defend that.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

[MikeTSZ]

isnt he the scrambling QB from Oregon?

[86WARD]

Yeah. I think it would be a great idea to use him more often.

Since Arians has taken over, the Steelers Offense hasn't had an identity at all. When Whisenhunt was here it was 54% run and 46% pass, occasional trick play. The Steelers haven't run a trick play (other than a reverse) for 2 seasons now. They used to be a staple of the game plan and used to spark the O every now and again.

Now they just try to pass.

They've been doing a lot of run without the fullback and it's been unsuccessful. They have much more success when the FB is in there, but refuse to insert him. It's nice to go single set back every once in a while, but Willie needs a FB...it's so clear...

3rd & 2 when Whisenhunt was here? Pound the rock for two yards. Now? Shotgun formation...everytime. Sure the O-line has a lot to do with it, but come on...shotgun? Every time??

[MikeTSZ]

DCs know its coming and you can plan agianst that
Dixon could be a real nice spark for you

[SeanTaylor21]

Didn't Dixon tear his ACL on goal line or something like that?

[86WARD]

He did in college, but I'm not sure whether it was around the goal line.

I know he tore it and they didn't know about it and then played two weeks later but left the game in the first quarter...Arizona State maybe?

[AtlantaBlazer]

He looked to have some of his mobility back during the preseason, I wouldn't be too worried about him, especially at the goaline.

[86WARD]

He was real mobile in the preseason...REAL mobile...he did well. I definitely wouldn't mind seeing this guy hit the field...

[Dougerrrr]

Next slash or what? I am not sure he's the future qb for the Steelers. Ben has many years left in him.....if he stops taking sacks. Got a good weapon then use him. Thats what Randle El and Ward did....both college qb's.

[AtlantaBlazer]

Originally Posted by Dougerrrr

Next slash or what? I am not sure he's the future qb for the Steelers. Ben has many years left in him.....if he stops taking sacks. Got a good weapon then use him. Thats what Randle El and Ward did....both college qb's.

Doubt it....at least I hope not. Both of the non-injured backups on that team want jobs next year, and I'm sure Dixon will influence his team to allow him to use his arm those situations as well as his legs.