Quarterback Dilemma in Pittsburgh: Coaches Weigh In
The Pittsburgh Steelers face a crucial decision as they debate who should start as quarterback for the upcoming season. Seasoned NFL coaches, Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick, offer their perspectives, suggesting the choice may not be as complex as it seems to those outside the organization.
Coaches' Insight
Russell Wilson continues to lead the quarterback race against Justin Fields. Despite neither leading a drive resulting in a touchdown during preseason, Cowher advocates for starting the season with Wilson while keeping Fields ready for strategic offensive plays.
“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 stated. “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 Troubles
A significant challenge for the Steelers has been their underperforming offensive line. The inefficiency of their drives during preseason can largely be attributed to this issue. Key offensive lineman Troy Fautanu, who has been sidelined due to injury, is expected to return for Week 1.
Belichick highlights the importance of resolving offensive line problems to bolster quarterback performance. “I think they have bigger problems than the quarterback position. That’s my opinion,” said Belichick. “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.”
Fautanu's absence has been felt for over a week, but his impending return could solidify the line, providing Wilson or Fields the protection needed to execute plays effectively.
Promising Talent
Amidst the challenges, there are promising signs. Newcomer Zach Frazier has impressed as a potential starting center for Pittsburgh. Although a rookie, his capabilities suggest he could play a crucial role this season, even as he gains the necessary experience.
Additionally, rookie Mason McCormick shows potential, though he requires more time to develop before significantly impacting the team's performance this season.
Historical Context
Looking back at the Steelers' quarterback history, it's evident that the team has navigated similar situations before. In 1996, Mike Tomczak started over Kordell Stewart, leading the team to a 10-6 record and a divisional playoff appearance. This historical context provides an intriguing parallel, supporting the argument for experience under center to guide the team through uncertain times.
Current Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is backed by experts as he continues with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback. The resolution of offensive line issues is seen as paramount for enhancing quarterback success. “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 added.
The Road Ahead
The Steelers' strategy will need to adapt as they address offensive line struggles and leverage their quarterback’s strengths. Establishing a reliable offensive line not only protects the quarterback but also enables a productive running game, both of which are critical for the team’s overall success this season.
With key figures like Cowher and Belichick weighing in, the Steelers' leadership will need to balance experience and emerging talent to navigate their 2023 campaign successfully. The return of Troy Fautanu and the development of rookies like Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick could very well be pivotal in shaping Pittsburgh’s offensive dynamics in the games to come.