The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently embroiled in a quarterback debate that highlights deeper issues within the team. Despite the appearances, seasoned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick don't see the decision as complicated. The focal point remains whether Russell Wilson or Justin Fields will lead the offense, both quarterbacks yet to score a touchdown in preseason play.
Russell Wilson, a proven veteran, has maintained a slight edge over Fields in the quarterback race. However, neither quarterback has managed to lead a successful touchdown drive, a failure largely attributed to the substandard performance of the offensive line. Expert analysis underscores that resolving offensive line issues is crucial for any quarterback to succeed.
Injuries and Young Talent
One of the key issues is the injury to key offensive lineman Troy Fautanu, who has been sidelined for over a week. His absence has been a significant factor in the offensive line's struggles. The team is optimistic, though, as Fautanu is expected to return for Week 1, which could provide the much-needed boost to the line’s performance.
Meanwhile, newcomer Zach Frazier, a rookie center, has shown promise but evidently needs more experience. Veteran Mason McCormick also holds potential but lacks the experience to make a substantial impact this season. With Fautanu out, the Steelers have seen Broderick Jones taking up the role of right tackle and Dan Moore Jr. playing left tackle. These adjustments have failed to solve the underlying problem, putting additional pressure on the quarterbacks.
Coaching Perspectives
Bill Cowher suggests a balanced approach to the quarterback conundrum, emphasizing the importance of managing expectations for Justin Fields. “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,” Cowher advises.
Similarly, Bill Belichick highlights the importance of getting the running game going to aid the quarterback. “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 notes, stressing the significance of a versatile offensive strategy.
Belichick goes further to underline the real challenge: “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.”
Historical Parallels and Future Prospects
Historical performance also enters the conversation, with recollections of Mike Tomczak starting over Kordell Stewart in 1996. Tomczak led the team to a 10-6 record that season, eventually falling in the divisional round of the playoffs. This historical parallel serves as a reminder that the right quarterback decision can lead to a successful season, though a strong supporting cast, particularly the offensive line, remains indispensable.
Presently, Coach Mike Tomlin continues to favor Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback. Nonetheless, experts and fans alike remain acutely aware that for Wilson or any quarterback to thrive, the offensive line must be solidified. The line’s capacity to protect the quarterback and facilitate a productive running game is pivotal for the Steelers' overall success.
As the season approaches, the focus will be on the performance and health of key players like Troy Fautanu and the development of rookies such as Zach Frazier. The Steelers’ ability to resolve these issues will be crucial in determining whether they can support their quarterback effectively and compete at a high level this season.