Quarterback Decision Looms for Pittsburgh Steelers Amidst Offensive Line Challenges
The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently at a crossroads, debating who should start as their quarterback. This decision, however, is perceived differently by seasoned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick, who believe the choice might not be as challenging as it seems to the outside world.
Despite the debate, Russell Wilson has managed to maintain his dominance in the quarterback race over Justin Fields. Both quarterbacks have struggled to lead a drive that culminated in a touchdown during preseason play, a performance issue largely attributed to substandard offensive line performance.
Key to understanding these struggles is the injury to pivotal offensive line player Troy Fautanu. Fautanu, who has been sidelined for over a week, is expected to return for Week 1, which could provide a much-needed boost to the line's efficiency.
'You start the season with Russell. If Justin Fields starts as the second guy, have a package of plays,' suggested Bill Cowher. '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.'
Arthur Smith's Role
Adding another layer to the situation is the integration of newcomer Zach Frazier as Pittsburgh’s starting center. Frazier shows great promise, but as a rookie, he still requires more experience before making a significant impact this season. The inefficiency of the drives during preseason can also be attributed to this inexperience.
Bill Belichick shared insights on this matter: '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.'
Offensive Line Priorities
Belichick also highlighted the offensive line's critical role in ensuring quarterback success. '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.'
The Steelers’ struggle to find effective protection and drive momentum is palpable, but Mike Tomlin remains firm. The current Steelers coach is continuing with Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback, and many believe that solving the offensive line issues will be paramount to future success. Expert opinions align on one key element: the offensive line’s ability to protect their quarterback and facilitate a productive running game is crucial for the Steelers’ success.
Looking Forward
As the Steelers prepare for the new season, the return of Troy Fautanu is highly anticipated. His presence on the line could be the linchpin for transforming their offensive capabilities. With Dan Moore Jr. playing left tackle and Broderick Jones on the right, alongside the promising yet inexperienced Zach Frazier at center, the Steelers' focus must be on building a cohesive and efficient unit.
Rookie Mason McCormick also holds potential, but his impact this season might be limited due to his need for more experience. Nonetheless, his growth presents future opportunities for further strengthening the line.
Reflecting on past strategies, Mike Tomczak's tenure as a starting quarterback in 1996, which led the team to a 10-6 record and a divisional round appearance, underscores the importance of robust offensive line play and tactical decisions that consider the broader team's dynamics.
Experts remain cautiously optimistic that, with strategic improvements and player developments, the Steelers can overcome their preseason hurdles and perform effectively in the forthcoming season.