An odd trend is the willingness of the Steelers to put Shaun Suisham in long field goal situations. Suisham had a very good 2012-13 season but isn't known for leg strength.
- His career long is 52 yards
- ...and he's hit 5 of 14 attempts, lifetime, from more than 50 yards
- ...and he's 54 of 69 from 40-49 yards.
Despite this, in 2012-13 Suisham was asked to attempt...
- a 52 and 54 yarder in the Tennessee game,
- ...a 53-yarder against Cincinnati,
- ...in the 2011-12 regular season he attempted 50+ yards twice.
- ...and another 52-yarder in Super Bowl XLV.
In 2010-11, his first season with the Steelers, Suisham's long was 48 yards and he had no 50+ yard attempts.
Meanwhile, the longest successful field goal attempt ever, by any kicker, at Heinz Field is 52 yards.
Missing field goals of 50+ yards is especially damaging because of the amazing field position it gives the opponent. I hope the Steelers are more realistic about Suisham's range in 2013-14.
