Steelers look for improvements in home opener against Vikings

PITTSBURGH — When the Steelers open their 85th home season on Sunday, they’ll be looking for improvement in many areas.

That would include their running game - specifically Le’Veon Bell.

Statistically, Bell was mediocre in the regular-season opener at Cleveland.

The Steelers survived week one with a three-point win over the Browns, but Bell finished with only 32 yards on 10 carries, to go along with three receptions for 15 yards.

Bell knows he has to be better, but he also understands the importance of being patient.

“I’m just trying to run the plays that are called to the best of my ability and make plays when the opportunities present themselves,” he said.

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Offensive coordinator Todd Haley would love to see Bell get in a groove, but Haley is also hoping the entire offense finds its rhythm.

"It's a fine line, you know. We do everything possible to try to get the quarterback going, to get the line going, to get the running back going, to get AB going. You got a lot of guys to think about, and the number-one thing is be efficient, and have success when you do that, the ball gets spread around. Guys get into a rhythm, when you don't you got to come to the sideline quicker than you want to," Haley said.

The status of Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford may be in question for Sunday’s game. Bradford, who’s coming off the best game of his career, was limited again in Thursday’s practice.

Against the Saints on Monday Night Football, Bradford completed 27 of 32 passes for 346 yards and three touchdowns.

As with anyone who saw that performance, Steelers defensive coordinator Keith Butler was impressed.

"He looked pretty good to me. He threw the ball exceptionally well," Butler said.

The Steelers are also dealing with some early-season injuries. Defensive end Stephon Tuitt (biceps), missed practice again on Thursday. Linebacker Bud Dupree (shoulder) was limited at Thursday’s practice. On Wednesday, Dupree told Channel 11 he was “confident” he’d play against the Vikings.

The Steelers and Vikings play Sunday at 1 p.m. at Heinz Field.

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