Pittsburgh Steelers Quarterback Conundrum: Russell Wilson vs. Justin Fields
The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently embroiled in one of the more intriguing quarterback debates of the season, as they weigh their options between the seasoned Russell Wilson and the young, promising Justin Fields. For those outside the team's inner circle, it may appear to be a tough decision, but seasoned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick view the situation differently.
As it stands, Russell Wilson has maintained a steady lead in the quarterback race over Fields, despite neither having led a drive that resulted in a touchdown during preseason play. The primary culprit for this inefficiency appears to be the substandard performance of the Steelers' offensive line, a unit hampered further by the injury to key player Troy Fautanu. However, despite being sidelined, Fautanu is expected to make a return in time for Week 1.
According to Cowher, a veteran in the coaching realm, "You start the season with Russell. If Justin Fields starts as the second guy, have a package of plays. If all of a sudden you need a spark -- something to get your offense going again -- put [Fields] in. If you have to take Russell out, he’s been there before. It’s not going to destroy his confidence. I don’t want to start Justin Fields and then feel like I have to make a change and take him out. Limit the expectations on Justin Fields. Let him be Justin Fields.”
Belichick, echoing Cowher's sentiment, believes the focus needs to shift beyond the quarterback position. "I think they have bigger problems than the quarterback position. That’s my opinion. I think that the defense is a pretty solid unit. The offensive line had a hard time being consistent. They lost the tackle [Troy Fautanu]. Now they’ve got [Broderick] Jones over there playing right tackle. Dan [Moore Jr.] is playing left tackle. Inside they have a rookie center, [Zach] Frazier. He’s got a way to go. The guards, they’ve had some issues, too, in the first two preseason games.”
Offensive Line Woes
The struggles of the offensive line have been a significant factor in the preseason performance of the quarterbacks. Rookie center Zach Frazier has shown promise but is still developing the necessary skills to make an impact. Additionally, with Broderick Jones taking on the right tackle position and Dan Moore Jr. handling the left, the line's cohesion and effectiveness have come under scrutiny.
Belichick highlights the importance of improving the offensive line to provide better protection for the quarterback and enhance the running game. “Arthur [Smith] is a great fit for that offense -- for what Coach Tomlin wants. They need to get the running game going. They have good backs. They need to get those backs started. Russell's good out of the pocket. He’ll be able to hit those play action and passes.”
Lessons from the Past
The Steelers' current scenario draws parallels with past situations, such as when Mike Tomczak started over Kordell Stewart in 1996. Tomczak led the team to a commendable 10-6 record that season, though they eventually fell in the divisional round of the playoffs. Current Steelers coach Mike Tomlin faces a similar decision and, for now, continues to back Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback.
Looking at this historical reference, it is apparent that the Steelers can find success even under challenging circumstances. However, the key lies in a reliable offensive line, as any quarterback—be it Wilson or Fields—requires sufficient protection and support to execute plays effectively.
Moving Forward
The upcoming season holds significant promise and scrutiny for the Steelers. Resolving the offensive line issues is crucial for the team's success, not just for the quarterbacks but for the entirety of the offense. The return of Troy Fautanu and the development of young players like Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick will be vital. While McCormick shows potential, he will need more experience to make a significant impact.
The consensus among experts is clear: for the Steelers to meet their potential and capitalize on their talented roster, the focus must shift to solidifying the offensive line. This will not only provide Russell Wilson or Justin Fields with the necessary protection but will also pave the way for a more productive running game, which is paramount for a successful season.
As Week 1 approaches, all eyes will be on Mike Tomlin and his decisions. The Steelers have the components of a strong team, and with the right moves, they could very well overcome their preseason struggles and make a deep playoff run. The pieces are there, and with the right adjustments, the Steelers might find themselves back in contention, echoing the successful campaigns of yesteryears.