The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in the throes of a quarterback dilemma, deliberating over who should spearhead the offense this season. With the preseason drawing to a close, the coaching staff faces one of the most scrutinized decisions in recent years. However, renowned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick argue that the choice might not be as daunting as it seems from the outside.
Quarterback Controversy
Russell Wilson has emerged as the front-runner in the quarterback race, consistently outshining Justin Fields in camp. Yet, neither Wilson nor Fields has managed to lead a touchdown drive in preseason action, casting doubts over their efficiency. This inability to convert drives into scores can largely be attributed to the subpar performance of the offensive line.
Cowher offers a strategic perspective: “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
The offensive line's struggles appear glaring, with key player Troy Fautanu sidelined due to injury. His absence has undeniably weakened the front, adversely affecting the overall offensive dynamics. Fautanu is, however, expected to return for Week 1, providing a much-needed boost to the line.
Zach Frazier, a promising rookie, has taken on the role of starting center but is still in the process of gaining the experience necessary to anchor the line effectively. Broderick Jones has slotted in at right tackle, while Dan Moore Jr. is manning the left tackle position.
Belichick weighs in on the pressing issue: “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
Interestingly, the current debate echoes back to 1996 when Mike Tomczak started over Kordell Stewart. Tomczak led the Steelers to a 10-6 record that season, though the campaign ended in disappointment with a divisional-round playoff exit. Drawing parallels to today, Coach Mike Tomlin’s decision to continue with Russell Wilson bears significant weight.
Belichick adds an insightful observation: “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.” The emphasis on revitalizing the running game hints at a broader strategy aimed at enhancing overall offensive productivity.
The Path Forward
Experts unanimously agree that the offensive line's functionality will be pivotal for the quarterback's success. The line’s ability to shield the quarterback and enable a productive running game could make or break the Steelers’ season.
Rookie Zach Frazier's development and Troy Fautanu's return could be critical in solidifying the line. Moreover, Mason McCormick, another promising rookie, although currently lacking in experience, holds significant potential for future impact.
As the preseason chugs along, the Steelers’ coaching staff, led by Tomlin, must make pivotal decisions that will shape the trajectory of their upcoming season. With Wilson poised as the starter and an offensive line in the midst of reconstruction, the Steelers’ path to success will indeed be a story to watch.
In the end, the narrative for the Steelers transcends beyond who will call the plays under center. Instead, it bleeds into the trenches, where the offensive line battles will decide if this team can reclaim its erstwhile glory.