Abstract: A strip control system and steering roll which may be utilized in a rolling mill. The steering roll, having a semi-cylindrical outer shell, contacts a strip or web of material being processed. A degree of axial freedom is provided each half of the outer shell. A sensor capable of detecting strip or web off tracking is linked to at least one actuator which may impart an axial force to the outer shell to realign both the shell and material thereon. An opposing spring mechanism acts upon a traverse guide to automatically recenter the outer shell portion not in contact with the material being processed.