After the Steelers lived in the center of last season’s controversy over helmet-to-helmet hits, which led to sweeping rule changes, they pointed fingers this week at an offensive violation they say has flown under the radar for too long.

Namely, illegal cut and chop blocks, which some Steelers claim contributed to the Ravens’ dominating 35-7 victory in the season opener. Baltimore’s running game seared Pittsburgh for 170 yards, the most ground yardage the team has allowed in 22 games.

“Some of the things they were doing were questionable rules-wise and dangerous,” Steelers NT Chris Hoke told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Fellow lineman Casey Hampton called for action: “If it keeps happening, something is going to have to happen. I can’t keep getting chopped up like that when I am engaged.”

Assuming it’s more than the Steelers saving face after an embarrassing opener, things won’t get any easier against the Seahawks this Sunday. Seattle offensive line coach Tom Cable is a longtime disciple of the zone-blocking scheme, which cuts down defensive lineman to open lanes.

– Marc Sessler

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