The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently embroiled in a heated debate over who should assume the starting quarterback role for the season. Among the voices weighing in on this decision are seasoned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick, both of whom believe the choice might be simpler than it appears to outsiders. The main contender, Russell Wilson, has demonstrated his dominance over Justin Fields throughout the preseason, despite neither quarterback leading a drive that ended in a touchdown.
Challenges in The Offensive Line
The notable lack of efficiency in the quarterback drives can largely be attributed to the subpar performance of the offensive line. Key offensive lineman Troy Fautanu has been sidelined due to an injury, which has undoubtedly affected the team's overall performance. Fautanu, a vital player for the Steelers, has been out for over a week but is expected to return by Week 1, which could provide a much-needed boost to the line.
Newcomers like Zach Frazier and rookie Mason McCormick bring promise but still require more experience to make significant contributions this season. Frazier, projected to be Pittsburgh’s starting center, adds potential to the lineup, though his status as a rookie means he has a significant learning curve ahead of him.
The Coaching Perspective
Both coaches have shared their insights on how the Steelers should handle the quarterback situation. Bill Cowher suggests a strategic approach to managing the quarterbacks, stating, “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.”
Looking Beyond the Quarterback Dilemma
Bill Belichick views the situation from a broader perspective, focusing on the offensive line and running game as critical factors. “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 commented.
The expert consensus is that the Steelers have bigger issues than the quarterback position alone. Belichick elaborates on these challenges, “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 Context
Drawing parallels to the past, the current scenario echoes the 1996 season when Mike Tomczak was chosen over Kordell Stewart. Tomczak led the team to a commendable 10-6 record, although they ultimately fell in the divisional round of the playoffs. This historical precedent provides some context for current Steelers coach, Mike Tomlin, who is continuing with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback.
Experts agree that resolving the issues with the offensive line is paramount for the quarterback’s success. Proper protection and a productive running game are essential for the Steelers to thrive this season. As the team waits for Fautanu's return and the further development of rookie players like Frazier and McCormick, the emphasis remains on strengthening the offensive line to support the quarterback and ultimately, lead the team to victory.
With passionate opinions from seasoned coaches and mounting pressure to improve the offensive line, the Steelers' path forward will undoubtedly be fraught with challenges. However, the collective expertise and strategic input could provide the framework for a successful season.