The Pittsburgh Steelers are navigating a pivotal decision regarding their starting quarterback for the upcoming season. While the debate might seem complex to fans and analysts alike, veteran coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick view it with a nuanced simplicity.
Russell Wilson appears to be maintaining his stronghold as the favored quarterback, edging out Justin Fields in the preseason contests. Despite neither quarterback leading a touchdown drive yet, this stagnancy is attributed more to the underperformance of the offensive line than the quarterbacks' abilities themselves. Key lineman Troy Fautanu's injury has further exacerbated this issue, though he is expected to return by Week 1, offering a beacon of hope for stabilization.
The Coaches' Perspectives
Bill Cowher, reflecting on the quarterback choice, stated, “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.” His strategy underscores the importance of managing quarterback expectations and confidence levels throughout the season.
Meanwhile, Bill Belichick highlights the significance of crafting a supportive offensive framework. “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.” Belichick’s insights stress the importance of an effective running game to complement Wilson’s strengths outside the pocket.
Offensive Line Woes
Experts, including Belichick, argue that the greater problem might lie within the offensive line rather than 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.”
Zach Frazier, though promising as Pittsburgh’s starting center, is still gaining his footing as a rookie. Mason McCormick, another rookie, also shows potential but lacks the experience needed for an immediate substantial impact. The return of Fautanu is expected to enhance the line's stability, crucial for fostering any quarterback's success.
Historical Context
Historically, the Steelers have not shied away from making bold quarterback decisions. In 1996, Mike Tomczak started over Kordell Stewart, leading the team to a commendable 10-6 record before falling in the divisional round of the playoffs. This precedent serves as a reminder of the high-stakes nature of such choices within the franchise.
Looking Forward
Current coach Mike Tomlin is reportedly set on continuing with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback. This decision underscores a belief in Wilson's resilience and experience, hoping to see him thrive with an improved offensive line. The consensus among experts remains clear: enhancing the offensive line is imperative for the quarterback and the team’s overall success.
The Steelers' immediate and long-term trajectory depends significantly on these interwoven factors of player management and strategic gameplay. With a defense that's poised to remain solid, the offensive line's ability to protect the quarterback and establish the running game will define their season’s potential. As the anticipations build, the Steelers’ faithful will be watching closely to see if these calculated decisions can translate into on-field triumphs.