The Pittsburgh Steelers are at a crossroads as they deliberate on their starting quarterback for the upcoming season. While the debate rages on among fans and analysts, seasoned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick suggest the decision may not be as complex as it appears.
The Quarterback Conundrum
Amidst the controversy, Russell Wilson has emerged as the front-runner in the quarterback race, despite neither he nor his counterpart, Justin Fields, having led a touchdown drive during preseason play. Adding to the complexity, the inefficiency in their drives is largely attributed to the subpar performance of the offensive line.
Key offensive line player Troy Fautanu has been sidelined due to injury, which has further complicated the situation. However, there is optimism as Fautanu is expected to return for Week 1. In the interim, positions have been shuffled, with Broderick Jones playing right tackle and Dan Moore Jr. holding down the left tackle spot. Rookie Zach Frazier shows great promise as the starting center, yet he has much to learn. Another rookie, Mason McCormick, boasts potential but needs more experience to make a significant impact this season.
Insight from Experts
Bill Cowher advocates for starting the season with Wilson. “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 explains.
Bill Belichick, meanwhile, underscores the importance of the offensive scheme and 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,” says Belichick.
Beyond the Quarterback Debate
Belichick also points out that the team's issues extend 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,” he comments.
The importance of the offensive line cannot be overstated. Experts concur that resolving issues with the offensive line 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’ success this season.
As Mike Tomlin continues with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback, the focus remains on ensuring the offensive line can hold firm and create opportunities. With the expected return of Troy Fautanu, there is hope that the line will stabilize, providing the much-needed protection for Wilson and setting the stage for a more effective running game.
The Steelers' strategy will likely hinge on maximizing their strengths and addressing their weaknesses. In a league where every strategy is scrutinized and every play is crucial, the Steelers’ path forward will be one to watch closely as the season unfolds.