“You really can’t have two QBs in the same room. They’ll suck the oxygen out!” This is what the Hall of Famer DE Howie Long once said. And Pittsburgh Steelers might just be feeling this way with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields vying for the QB1 spot. Yes, Steelers Nation, by the looks of the training camp, it seems like the race is far from over. And now, this NFL insider has brought in some more insights from camp on July 30th.

Speaking on the Pat McAfee Show, the Athletic’s Steelers reporter Mark Kaboly weighed in on the quarterback shuffle. “I think they are being very very cautious with the 35, soon-to-be 36-year-old quarterback who pretty much knows the system already,” he said, noting Russ’ continued absence, missing the last four practices from camp due to a healed calf injury.

In this scenario of Wilson being absent from the field comes forth the situation of Justin Fields. He added, “I think this is an opportunity to get Justin Fields away and work early in camp.” But that’s all it is for Justin: an opportunity to do reps with the first team.

Amidst all conversations of competition between the two quarterbacks, Mark appears adamant about Fields being the backup.“When Russell Wilson comes back, the 2nd team’s reps aren’t nearly the same as 1st team reps,” the insider joked. He made it clear: the Steelers didn’t sign Russ to sit on the sidelines, and the reasons are as long as a touchdown drive. Taking a look at the previous season’s stats of the two players, the numbers provide an easy answer to the ‘why’ surrounding the team:

This might not be Russell Wilson’s peak, but at 35, and navigating his differences with Sean Payton at the Broncos, he deserves a tip of the cap. Wilson’s still a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, Justin Fields has the stats lining up, but he could use a mentor to perfect his craft. So, who better than Mr. Clutch himself to guide him?

Mark further highlighted the differences between the Steelers’ jersey number 3 and number 2 with a nod to experience and leadership. Wilson brings veteran savvy and leadership—he’s the guy you want confident under pressure and avoiding turnovers, per the reporter. Well, that’s a theme that many experts and analysts alike have pointed out. When the game is on the line, Russ is in his prime!

Pittsburgh needs Russell Wilson over Justin Fields, per ex-Bears Coach

With the QB debate still heating up in the Steel City, HC Mike Tomlin seems to be stuck in a fourth-down scramble. But former Bears’ coach Dave Wannstedt has his game plan locked in. On the July 26th episode of The Colin Cowherd Show, Dave delivered what he believes is a game-winning touchdown of an answer. “To win a Super Bowl and your division, it’s Russell Wilson, in my opinion,” he said.

Dave believes that Tomlin must rely on the 35-year-old’s playoff vigor to get the glory he dreams of. According to him, “A quarterback is defined by your team’s ability to be down by 10 with five minutes left. Can he drive you down the field, score twice, and win the game? Justin Fields, I hate to say it, but his fourth-quarter stats are a horror show—worst in the league.”

Let’s dive into the stats and see how Russ and Fields stack up in those high-pressure situations.

Talk about Mr. Clutch’s playbook! Well, these numbers make it clear as to why both Dave and Mark are all in for the “Russ for QB1” campaign. Do you think the Justin Fields vs Russell Wilson talks are still on? Or is it just for the camp to adjust to Russ’ current injury? The Steelers kick off their season on the 8th of September against the Falcons. All eyes will remain on the team to see what final answer they come up with!