Pittsburgh Steelers' Quarterback Dilemma: Wilson vs. Fields
The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at a crossroads as the debate over who should start as quarterback intensifies. Seasoned coaches, including Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick, seem to downplay the perceived complexity of the decision facing the team. Russell Wilson currently leads the race, having maintained his dominance over Justin Fields throughout preseason.
The Coaches' Perspective
Bill Cowher offers a structured approach to the quarterback controversy, suggesting that Russell Wilson begins the season. He elaborates:
"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.”
Meanwhile, Bill Belichick focuses on the broader picture, stressing the importance of the running game to complement the quarterback position:
“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.”
Offensive Line Woes
The inefficiency of the Steelers’ drives has been attributed largely to the substandard performance of the offensive line. During preseason, neither Wilson nor Fields managed to lead a drive that culminated in a touchdown. The absence of key offensive line player Troy Fautanu, sidelined due to injury, has exacerbated the situation. Fortunately, Fautanu is expected to return for Week 1, potentially bolstering the front line.
Bill Belichick also touches on the offensive line issues:
“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.”
New Talent and Potential
Among the new faces in the team, rookie Zach Frazier shows great promise as Pittsburgh’s starting center. Though he needs to develop further to make a significant impact this season, his presence brings hope for a more fortified offensive line.
Another rookie, Mason McCormick, holds potential but requires more experience. As he continues to hone his skills, the Steelers might see a capable backup ready to step up when needed.
Historical Context and Future Implications
Historically, the Steelers have had to make tough decisions about their starting quarterback. Mike Tomczak’s start over Kordell Stewart in 1996, leading the team to a 10-6 record and a playoff appearance, serves as a testament to how pivotal these decisions can be. Current Steelers Coach Mike Tomlin is likely hoping for a similar positive outcome with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback.
Experts agree that resolving offensive line issues is crucial for the quarterback’s success. The line’s ability to protect their quarterback and facilitate a productive running game is paramount for the Steelers’ overall performance.
In conclusion, while the dilemma over who should start as quarterback captures headlines, the Steelers’ success this season will depend heavily on the performance and health of their offensive line. The return of Troy Fautanu and the potential of rookies like Zach Frazier could prove to be the deciding factors in achieving a successful campaign.