Quarterback Debate Intensifies as Steelers' Preseason Struggles Continue
The Pittsburgh Steelers are navigating uncharted waters as a debate brews over who should start as quarterback. With the preseason nearing completion, seasoned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick argue that the decision isn't as challenging as it seems to the untrained eye.
Despite the competition, Russell Wilson has edged out Justin Fields in the quarterback race. However, it's worth noting that neither Wilson nor Fields has managed to lead a touchdown drive during preseason play. This inefficiency isn't entirely on their shoulders, as the offensive line's subpar performance has significantly hindered their efforts.
Injuries and Offensive Line Struggles
A significant blow comes from the injury of key offensive lineman Troy Fautanu, who has been sidelined for over a week. Fautanu's absence has left a noticeable gap in the team's protection schemes. However, there's a silver lining; he's expected to return by Week 1, which could alleviate some of the pressure on the quarterbacks.
Newcomer Zach Frazier, a promising rookie center, has shown potential but still has a way to go. The Steelers have also been relying on rookie Mason McCormick, who requires more experience before making a lasting impact this season. As Broderick Jones takes on the role of right tackle and Dan Moore Jr. mans the left tackle, the team is still searching for a cohesive unit upfront.
Coaching Insights
Former Steelers head coach Bill Cowher shared his perspective, advocating for 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.”
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick also chimed in, highlighting the importance of the running game to complement the quarterbacks: “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.”
Looking Beyond the Quarterback Position
Belichick expressed that the Steelers’ issues run deeper than just the quarterback. "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.”
Current Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is persisting with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback, implicitly signaling confidence in Wilson's veteran ability to navigate the operational challenges. Yet, it is evident that resolving the offensive line issues is essential to any level of success this season. The linemen's proficiency in protecting the quarterback and establishing an effective running game is critical for the Steelers.
As the season opener approaches, all eyes will be on how Pittsburgh's coaching staff manages their quarterback situation amid an evolving and injury-plagued offensive line. The stakes are high, and the pressure's mounting—but with the return of key players like Troy Fautanu and the potential of young talents like Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick, there remains a cautious optimism in Pittsburgh.