The Pittsburgh Steelers are at a critical juncture, deliberating on who should stand under center as their starting quarterback. While the decision seems complex to many, seasoned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick believe the choice is clearer than it appears.
The Quarterback Conundrum
Russell Wilson has edged out Justin Fields in the ongoing quarterback race, although neither has led a touchdown drive during preseason play. This lack of productivity can be largely attributed to the subpar performance of the offensive line, an issue that experts consider crucial for the quarterback's success.
Former Steelers coach Bill Cowher weighs in on the situation, suggesting 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. 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.”
Offensive Line Woes
Key offensive line player Troy Fautanu has been sidelined due to injury, and while he is expected to return for Week 1, his absence has been felt profoundly. Bill Belichick commented on the importance of the running game and the challenges facing the current lineup: “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 also highlighted broader issues beyond the quarterback position, pointing to the inconsistency in offensive line performance: “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.”
Rookies and Newcomers
Newcomer Zach Frazier shows promising potential as Pittsburgh’s starting center. Yet, as Belichick noted, Frazier is still a rookie and has room to grow before making a significant impact this season. Meanwhile, rookie Mason McCormick holds promise but similarly requires more experience to contribute meaningfully to the team’s success.
The offensive line is shaping up with Broderick Jones at right tackle and Dan Moore Jr. at left tackle. The return of Troy Fautanu, who has been out for over a week, is eagerly anticipated as it could stabilize the line and, by extension, the offensive unit as a whole.
Historical Context
This situation echoes back to 1996 when Mike Tomczak started over Kordell Stewart, leading the Steelers to a 10-6 record before falling in the divisional round of the playoffs. This historical precedent might offer some solace and perspective to Coach Mike Tomlin as he continues with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback. The central tenet remains: an effective offensive line is paramount for the quarterback and team's overall success.
As the Steelers prepare for the upcoming season, resolving offensive line issues remains a high priority. The ability to protect their quarterback and facilitate a productive running game will be critical determinants of their performance. The insights from legendary coaches like Cowher and Belichick could provide the guidance needed as Pittsburgh navigates these early-season hurdles.