Steelers offensive coordinator Matt Canada has been under fire this season, to say the least. Earlier this year, he was met with “Fire Canada” chants as his offense struggled on the field.
So, when a report came out ahead of Thursday night’s game vs. the Titans stating that Canada would be on the sidelines instead of in the booth, fans were worried.
But the Pittsburgh faithful realized their fears were unfounded, as the Steelers went on to score on their opening drive for just the third time in the last 32 games. Canada's play-calling was effective, and Acrisure Stadium erupted in cheers as running back Najee Harris scored his first touchdown of the season.
NFL fans immediately overreacted to the play, giving Canada the credit for putting the Steelers on top in the first five minutes. Newly retired J.J. Watt, who was in Pittsburgh to cheer on his brother T.J., even tweeted saying “Put him on the sideline every game!!!”
Check out some of the best reactions to Canada’s new station.
Put him on the sideline every game!!!
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) November 3, 2023
Matt Canada calling plays from the sideline: pic.twitter.com/rH50QcYSoV
— Ty Schmit (@tyschmit) November 3, 2023
Someone glue Matt Canada's feet to the sideline. He's not allowed to leave this year. #Steelers
— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) November 3, 2023
the steelers offense when matt canada is in the booth vs the steelers offense when matt canada is on the sideline pic.twitter.com/ixG5oh3Pua
— Jessica Smetana (@jessica_smetana) November 3, 2023
And all it took for was to move Matt Canada to the sidelines for it to click.
— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly) November 3, 2023
Matt Canada’s elevator pass just got deactivated.
— Judy Battista (@judybattista) November 3, 2023
Matt Canada calling plays from the sideline pic.twitter.com/ZRB3lsI6gK
— Gump Cathcart (@bubbagumpino) November 3, 2023
🚨 Steelers have scored an opening-drive touchdown! 🚨
— Daniel Valente (@StatsGuyDaniel) November 3, 2023
Matt Canada is never allowed to go back up to the booth again.