Debate Over Steelers' Starting Quarterback Intensifies Amid Offensive Line Woes
In a city that lives and breathes football, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves embroiled in a pivotal debate: who should start as quarterback for the upcoming season. The focus sharpens on veteran Russell Wilson, who has shown dominance in the quarterback race over young Justin Fields. Yet, neither Wilson nor Fields has managed to lead a drive culminating in a touchdown during preseason play, casting a spotlight on the underlying issues affecting the team.
Expert Opinions on the Quarterback Dilemma
Seasoned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick, respected voices within the NFL community, both believe that the quarterback situation is more straightforward than it might appear to the average outsider. “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 advises. He emphasizes the need to limit the expectations placed on Fields to allow him to develop naturally. “Let him be Justin Fields,” he adds.
Belichick concurs but broadens the scope to highlight other pressing issues facing the team. “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,” he notes. Belichick underscores the importance of resolving offensive line issues, stressing that the inefficiency of both quarterbacks' drives can be largely attributed to the substandard performance of the offensive line.
Offensive Line Struggles
The offensive line has indeed been under scrutiny, especially with key player Troy Fautanu sidelined due to injury. Fautanu's absence has significantly affected the line's performance, and his return for Week 1 is eagerly anticipated. In the interim, Broderick Jones has been playing right tackle, while Dan Moore Jr. has taken up duties at left tackle. Rookie center Zach Frazier, who shows great promise, is still navigating the challenges of his new role.
Belichick voiced concerns about the consistency of the offensive line unit, “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.”
Looking at Potential Solutions
As the team grapples with these issues, it becomes increasingly clear that fixing the offensive line is paramount for any quarterback, be it Wilson or Fields, to succeed. Belichick highlights the importance of getting the running game on track, which would naturally alleviate some pressure from 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 explains.
The Road Ahead
Coach Mike Tomlin has indicated his intention to continue with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback, a decision backed by both his experience and the insights of veteran coaches like Cowher and Belichick. “If you have to take Russell out, he’s been there before. It’s not going to destroy his confidence,” Cowher notes.
The Steelers must rally around an improved offensive line to foster a productive season. The ability of this unit to protect Wilson and facilitate an effective running game will be critical. As the team awaits Fautanu’s return and hopes for Frazier’s rapid development, all eyes will be on the Steelers as they prepare to kick off the season.
The narrative surrounding the Steelers’ quarterback debate continues to evolve, but the essence of the challenge remains clear: the success of Pittsburgh’s season hinges on more than just the man behind the center. Experts and fans alike will watch closely as the Steelers work to solidify their offensive line and, by extension, their entire offensive strategy.