The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently at crossroads as they deliberate over who should be their starting quarterback. While the debate might seem intense to the public, seasoned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick suggest that the decision is more straightforward than it appears. Both coaches agree on Russell Wilson's strong position in the quarterback race against Justin Fields, despite neither quarterback leading a touchdown drive during preseason play.
Coaching Perspectives
Bill Cowher, a trusted voice in football circles, advocates for starting the season with Russell Wilson, allowing Justin Fields to develop without excessive pressure. "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 asserts.
Bill Belichick shares a similar sentiment and praises the fit of Arthur Smith within the Steelers' 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 actions and passes," says Belichick.
Challenges with the Offensive Line
One glaring issue that both coaches highlight is the underperformance of the Steelers' offensive line. This inefficiency has been a significant factor behind the lackluster drives in preseason play. Troy Fautanu, a key player, has been sidelined due to injury, leaving the offensive line vulnerable. Fortunately, Fautanu is expected to return for Week 1, which should bolster the line's stability.
In Troy Fautanu's absence, Broderick Jones has been playing at right tackle and Dan Moore Jr. at left tackle. The Steelers also have rookie center Zach Frazier, whom Belichick finds promising but acknowledges his need for experience. "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," Belichick explains.
The Path Ahead
Coach Mike Tomlin has decided to continue with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback, understandable given Wilson's experience and ability to perform under pressure. Experts agree 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 remains paramount for the Steelers' overall performance this season.
While the offensive challenges persist, there is significant optimism around some fresh faces on the roster. Newcomer Zach Frazier shows great promise as the Steelers’ starting center, and although rookie Mason McCormick holds potential, more experience is needed before he can significantly impact the team. This balance between nurturing young talent and relying on veteran experience will be critical as the Steelers navigate the upcoming season.
The preseason jitters are palpable, but with key players like Troy Fautanu returning and strategic decisions around the quarterback position, the Steelers have reasons to remain hopeful. The season's true test will be how well these elements come together on the field. As always, the unpredictable nature of football keeps fans eagerly awaiting the first whistle.