The Pittsburgh Steelers face a pivotal decision as they deliberate on their starting quarterback heading into the new season. This debate has captivated the fans and media alike, with seasoned coaching legends Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick providing their insights on what initially appears to be a tough call.
Quarterback Competition
Russell Wilson has maintained an edge over Justin Fields in the highly scrutinized quarterback race. Despite this, preseason performance has been less than stellar, with neither quarterback leading a touchdown drive. Bill Cowher suggests a strategic approach: "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." Cowher emphasizes the importance of managing expectations around Fields, hinting that thrusting him into the primary role too soon could hamper his development.
Current Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin appears to follow Cowher's wisdom, continuing with Wilson as the starting quarterback while keeping Fields prepared for a strategic insertion when necessary. This decision is hardly unprecedented; in 1996, Mike Tomczak was preferred over Kordell Stewart, leading the team to a respectable 10-6 record and a divisional playoff berth.
Offensive Line Woes
However, the quarterbacks' preseason struggles can be significantly attributed to inconsistent performance from the offensive line. This unit has been under scrutiny, with critical player Troy Fautanu sidelined due to injury for over a week. Fautanu's absence has revealed gaps, prompting Bill Belichick to comment, "I think they have bigger problems than the quarterback position. 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."
Belichick’s observations underscore the challenges the Steelers' offensive line faces. While Fautanu is expected to return by Week 1, the initial setbacks have already raised concerns. Newcomer Zach Frazier, who shows great promise as a rookie center, will need to accelerate his adaptation to the professional level. His progress, along with Broderick Jones at right tackle and Dan Moore Jr. at left tackle, will be critical as the Steelers look to improve their line's efficacy.
The offensive line's troubles also impact the running game, which is a cornerstone of Coach Tomlin's strategy. Belichick further noted, "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." Addressing the inconsistencies among the guards and ensuring robust play from the tackles and center will be vital in reigniting the ground game, creating opportunities for play-action passes that leverage Wilson's strength outside the pocket.
Looking Ahead
The Steelers’ success this season hinges on more than just who starts at quarterback. Smoothing out the kinks in the offensive line is paramount. Experts widely agree that quarterback performance is intertwined with the protection and support provided by their offensive line. The return of Troy Fautanu and the development of rookie Mason McCormick, who holds potential but requires more experience, are key elements to watch.
In conclusion, the Steelers' journey through the season promises to be a testament to strategic coaching and player development. As Russell Wilson prepares to take the helm, his success will not rest solely on his shoulders but on the collective improvement and resilience of his teammates, particularly those manning the crucial offensive line positions.