The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into Week 7 with renewed confidence after a commanding 32-13 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. The win gave them much-needed momentum as they prepare to face a desperate New York Jets team on Sunday Night Football.
Having said that, the game against Vegas didn’t start in Pittsburgh’s favor, as they trailed 7-3 early in the second quarter. However, the Steelers offense found its rhythm, with quarterback Justin Fields leading a pivotal six-play drive that ended in a 3-yard scramble for a go-ahead touchdown.
That play gave Pittsburgh a 12-7 advantage heading into halftime. In the second half, Pittsburgh’s run game dominated, piling up 183 rushing yards.
Fields also contributed through the air, completing 14 of 24 passes for 145 yards and adding 59 rushing yards on the ground.
Of course, it was Russell Wilson who was originally expected to be Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback this season. An untimely injury changed those plans.
However, Wilson is finally inching towards a return to the field. There are any who believe the Steelers are much better off with Wilson under center. After all, Fields has been a bit of fool’s gold this season.
While they look strong in the standings – which is all that matters – the truth is that Fields is a very limited quarterback and is in many ways holding the Steelers back from being a truly explosive offense.
However, don’t tell Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger that…
“I thought Justin [Fields] played a good game. He went on some spurts where he had a couple of bad throws in a row. But all in all I wouldn’t absolutely not even think of taking him out of the game right now. I think he’s doing enough. You saw with his legs especially, making things happen.” Roethlisberger said on his Footbahlin podcast.
Roethlisberger also acknowledged veteran backup Russell Wilson, highlighting the different skill set he brings to the table.
“It’s good to know what you have at the backup position and Russ is there if you need him. I just think what you’re going to get from Russ is more pocket presence to throw the ball down the field, but you’re not going to get that extend the play like Justin does because he’s a running back, back there when he decides to run,” Roethlisberger added.
Big Ben is far from the only Fields supporter out there. The perfect in-between – and perhaps the most likely scenario – is that head coach Mike Tomlin will use both quarterbacks.
Interestingly, controversial Steelers wide receiver George Pickens made it clear that he has faith in both Fields and Wilson and will support whosever under center.
“I know the media and the world want to paint me out as a selfish guy but really I’m the most unselfish guy in the world,” Pickens said in an interview on FS1’s The Facility.
To me honestly it really don’t matter, they’re both good players. I know they both got two different playing styles. They both can engineer a victory. Coming from Georgia, that’s like one of the biggest things I only care about: winning.”
Despite leaning towards Wilson, Tomlin heaped plenty of praise on Fields and applauded his toughness and resiliency.
“I thought he did a nice job, particularly making some things happen with his legs, managing the circumstances, and taking care of the ball,” Tomlin said. “Obviously, he took a few hits, but he’s a tough guy. I’m glad he’s okay, and we’ll keep moving.”
What are your thoughts on the whole Wilson vs. Fields debate? … While both will most likely play, who should be the primary starter going forward???