The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at a pivotal juncture as they navigate the delicate balance of deploying their quarterbacks, Justin Fields and Russell Wilson. With the team currently leading the AFC North at 8-3, the margin for error is slim, and optimizing the offense will be crucial to securing a home playoff game and making a deep postseason run.
The Wilson-Fields Conundrum
Since reclaiming the starting role six weeks ago, Russell Wilson has ignited the Steelers’ passing game with his penchant for the deep ball. In his first two starts, the offense averaged an impressive 31.5 points and 417.5 yards per game. However, recent performances have raised concerns about the sustainability of this approach.
Over the past three games, the Steelers’ scoring average has dipped to 21.6 points, failing to surpass 20 points in the last two outings. Wilson’s boom-or-bust style has resulted in four touchdowns and two interceptions during this span, while the offensive line has allowed 11 sacks, highlighting the need for improved protection and consistency.
Efficiency in the Red Zone
One area where the Steelers have struggled is red zone efficiency. Despite Wilson’s ability to move the ball downfield, the team ranks 30th in red zone touchdown percentage. In contrast, Justin Fields has demonstrated greater proficiency inside the 20-yard line, responsible for more red zone touchdowns (8) than Wilson (5).
Fields also boasts a superior red zone QBR (92.2) and completion percentage (57.1%) compared to Wilson (8.9 QBR, 34.6% completion percentage). While 90% of Wilson’s red zone drives have yielded points, only 40% have resulted in touchdowns. Conversely, 50% of Fields’ red zone possessions have ended with six points.
Deploying the Fields Package
To address these issues, the Steelers have begun incorporating a Justin Fields package into their offensive game plan. Debuting against the Ravens and appearing again versus the Browns, this package aims to capitalize on Fields’ red zone efficiency and add an element of unpredictability to the offense.
However, the inconsistent quarterback rotation has had its drawbacks. Fields himself admitted that the sporadic playing time affected his timing and rhythm. Finding the right balance and play-calling strategy will be key to maximizing the effectiveness of this two-quarterback system.
The Path Forward
As the Steelers embark on the crucial final stretch of the regular season, they must find a way to harness the strengths of both Wilson and Fields. While a complete overhaul of the quarterback situation may not be necessary, adjusting how and when each signal-caller is deployed could yield significant benefits.
Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and head coach Mike Tomlin have their work cut out for them. Striking the right balance between Wilson’s big-play ability and Fields’ red zone efficiency will be essential to the Steelers’ success. With four divisional games remaining and a Christmas Day clash with the Kansas City Chiefs looming, the time to find that perfect quarterback formula is now.
The Steelers’ playoff aspirations hinge on their ability to optimize their offensive attack. By expertly navigating the Wilson-Fields dynamic and putting each quarterback in the best position to succeed, Pittsburgh can solidify their hold on the AFC North and make a legitimate push for their first postseason victory since 2016. The road ahead is challenging, but with the right strategic deployment, the Steelers have the talent to emerge as a force to be reckoned with in the AFC.
