The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently in the throes of a quarterback debate, a scenario not unfamiliar to seasoned NFL fans. While the decision appears daunting to the untrained eye, seasoned coaches Bill Cowher and Bill Belichick suggest it might be more straightforward than it seems. The real issue, they argue, lies elsewhere.
Russell Wilson has edged ahead in the quarterback race, consistently maintaining his dominance over Justin Fields during the preseason. However, despite their individual talents, neither Wilson nor Fields has managed to lead a drive resulting in a touchdown, a shortcoming that can be largely pinned on the performance of the offensive line.
Offensive Line Woes
The Steelers' offensive line has struggled, with its inefficiency culminating in lackluster drives. A significant blow came when key player Troy Fautanu was sidelined due to injury. Fautanu, instrumental in bolstering the line, has been out for over a week, leaving the team scrambling to fill the void. However, relief is on the horizon as Fautanu is anticipated to return for Week 1.
The team has also seen potential in newcomer Zach Frazier, who shows great promise as Pittsburgh’s starting center. Although a rookie, Frazier has demonstrated the ability to step up, though he admittedly has a development curve ahead of him. Complementing him on the line are Broderick Jones at right tackle and Dan Moore Jr. at left tackle. While there’s visible potential, the line's continuity and efficiency remain under scrutiny.
Belichick encapsulates the sentiment surrounding Pittsburgh’s challenges succinctly: “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 Quarterback Conundrum
The quarterback conundrum is further elaborated by Bill Cowher, who brings a strategic perspective to the debate: “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.”
Current Steelers coach Mike Tomlin appears to align with this viewpoint, continuing to position Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback. Wilson, known for his poise and ability to adapt, could provide the stability needed for the offense. Yet, the critical eye remains on the supporting cast, particularly the offensive line, to safeguard the quarterback and establish a cohesive running game.
Potential and Promise
The Steelers have also recognized the promise in rookie Mason McCormick. Though he might not make a significant impact this season due to his need for more experience, his potential is undeniable. Similarly, Zach Frazier’s role as a rookie center brings a mixture of hope and the need for patience as he matures into the position.
Bill Belichick underscores the urgency of getting the running game in gear: “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.”
As the Steelers strategize their lineup, the offensive line's performance looms large. With Fautanu’s impending return, there’s optimism for improvement. The collective sentiment among experts is clear: bolstering the offensive line is crucial not just for the quarterback’s success, but for the entire offensive unit to thrive.
As the preseason draws to a close, all eyes are on Coach Mike Tomlin and his decisions. The Steelers' success this season hinges not only on their choice of quarterback but significantly on an offensive line that can protect and propel them forward.