Steel City has been brewing quarterback talks since before the season started. And guess what? It’s still going. But this time it’s a mix of good and bad. It was only a couple of days back that Russell Wilson said he’s preparing his mind to be ready [for week 6]. However, Mike Tomlin has just revealed what he has prepared for the Raiders clash.

And per the Steelers HC’s strategy: “Russell Wilson will be active on Sunday as the backup. Justin Fields will start.” Well, that’s a bummer. How long before Russ steps on the gridiron?

Here’s the thing: just because Fields is getting the start against the Raiders, it doesn’t mean Wilson will be stuck warming the bench all night. Game-time decisions, my friend, can shift faster than a quarterback scrambling from a collapsing pocket. If Tomlin sees Fields struggling, he might just turn to his seasoned vet to rally the troops. After two straight losses, can you blame him for having that ace up his sleeve?

Tomlin himself said it best: “I like what I’ve seen out here, but again, health and rust are two different things.” He’s got a point. Wilson’s had a full practice for the first time since that nagging calf injury, but getting back into game shape is a whole different ball game. That’s why Russ is sitting as the backup, for now. The coach wants to be sure Wilson can protect himself before throwing him into the fire.

Still, having two potential starters battling it out isn’t a bad problem to have, right? It’s the kind of situation that head coaches dream of—assuming, of course, it doesn’t throw a wrench in the team’s chemistry. We’ve all seen how far a tight-knit squad can go. Just look at the Chiefs, where the power of friendship (and, okay, maybe some Patrick Mahomes magic) has carried them far.

But here’s the silver lining: Wilson’s made it clear he’s ready, and Fields has echoed that “team first” mentality. So, no matter who takes the reins, it’s all about getting that W on Sunday. But is that really all there is to it?

Will Justin Fields lose his spot to Russell Wilson?

For Justin Fields, this might be his last big chance to prove he’s got what it takes to lead the Steelers long-term. Sure, he’s been cool under pressure with Russ out, but Steel City isn’t just looking for “calm“—they’re gunning for playoff wins. And let’s be honest, his numbers so far—67.6% completion, 961 yards, 5 TDs—are fine, but are they the kind of stats that carry you deep into the postseason? Not quite.

Here’s where Russell Wilson comes into play. He might be 35, but age isn’t the only number that matters. Experience does, too. If Russ steps onto that field against the Raiders, it’ll be his 191st NFL game—think about that for a second. That’s veteran savvy you can’t buy.

Fields, though? He’s not sweating it. When asked if Wilson’s return affects his mindset, Fields kept it cool: “Nah. Like I said, I’m blessed to be here. Whatever my role is on the team, I’m going to do it to the best of my ability.” That’s a team-first mentality right there.

And honestly, that’s been the vibe between these two from the start. Wilson and Fields have been nothing but supportive of each other, even when competing for the starting job during camp. Fields took it in stride when Russ won the gig, and now he’s got the same attitude even with Wilson looming. But make no mistake—Sunday’s game is Fields’ show to run. The ball is literally in his court.