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Debate

Is Mike Tomlin's QB strategy genius or just a ticking time bomb waiting to explode?

Steel City is buzzing, and why wouldn’t it be? The Steelers are grinding their way to a 6-0 start, and, surprisingly; the QBs are holding their own. Remember when their QB situation was a headache? We were all thinking back to that Howie Long warning—Don’t put two starting-worthy QBs in the same room; they’ll suck the oxygen out! However, Justin Fields and Russell Wilson make it work while respecting each other’s game. Now, we’re hearing NFL insider Adam Schefter’s take on Coach Mike Tomlin’s game plan.

On UnSportsManLike, Schefter didn’t mince words when asked if Russell Wilson should keep starting. “Justin Fields is playing well. There’s no need to annoy him, and right now, Russell Wilson’s playing well. There’s no need to annoy him either,” he said. Further hinting that Mike Tomlin might want to keep things as is. Schefter summed it up: if Wilson’s getting the job done, why overcomplicate it?

 

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And let’s be honest—Russ is actually cooking! Fans and analysts weren’t on the same wavelength as Tomlin when he chose Wilson over Fields in week 7, especially after the 25-year-old had led the Steelers to a 4-2 start. But since Wilson returned (from calf injury), he’s shown why Tomlin rolled with him.

His performance hasn’t just helped Pittsburgh win two straight. He has helped the team to a record 22nd home win in the NFL after the win over the Giants in week 8. It’s brought some serious firepower to their offense. And if we are out here talking stats, then picture this: The Steelers managed to record at least 400 yards of offense in consecutive weeks. Not thrilled? Oh, you’d be. Per ESPN’s Brooke Pryor, this for the first time since the 2018 season that the Steelers have managed that.

Not a small feat. And it’s clear Tomlin’s decision is paying off big time. Not just that, Wilson’s also adding an extra dimension to the passing game. We are not here to compare because Fields did fill in perfectly. But, when a seasoned vet starts balling, you must let your guard down.

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Is Mike Tomlin's QB strategy genius or just a ticking time bomb waiting to explode?

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Russell Wilson shows Justin Fields who’s the veteran in Pittsburgh

Russell Wilson is showing Justin Fields—and the entire Steelers Nation—just how a seasoned vet gets it done. Fields may have kicked off the season strong. But Wilson’s recent outings have been a masterclass. You know, that game-within-the-game that Wilson seems to have in spades? His first start this season against the Jets saw Pittsburgh rack up a season-high 409 offensive yards, and he followed it up by posting 426 yards against the Giants.

It’s a statement: “Have that, doubters!” Wilson’s stats don’t lie, either. The two starts have boosted him to a 54.3 adjusted QBR with a 111.9 passer rating, narrowly edging out Fields’ numbers. And this isn’t just “good for now”—it’s vintage Wilson. Completing 16 of 29 passes for 264 yards and two touchdowns (plus a rushing score!) against the Jets, then 20 of 28 for 278 yards and a touchdown with zero interceptions against the Giants, Russ is reminding everyone of the playmaker he’s always been.

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And with a bye coming up, maybe he’ll come back even sharper. Guess that’s why Adam Schefter’s rooting for Russ to continue under the center. Could this be the magic the Steelers hoped for when they signed him in the offseason? While his deal with Pittsburgh was on the budget-friendly side, Wilson’s return to form has fans feeling like they scored a prime-time steal.

But these were far from the tests. Things are about to heat up for the Steel City after the bye-week. How hard can it get? The Commanders and the Ravens back-to-back. Yup, we are talking that kind of hard! Will they melt or will Russell Wilson come in clutch again? That’s up for anybody to predict. But so far, it has been good for the Steelers.

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