In the first two games of the season, quarterback Justin Fields has been instrumental in leading the Steelers to two consecutive victories. With impressive stats so far, it seems like Fields will be getting another start in Week 3 when the Chargers visit Pittsburgh for the Steelers’ highly anticipated home opener.
Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed on Tuesday that Russell Wilson is still not medically cleared to play due to a calf injury, paving the way for Fields to take the field once again. Former Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger has voiced his support for Fields, suggesting that the team should stick with him even when Wilson is back to full health. However, Tomlin remains focused on the present and refuses to entertain hypothetical scenarios, stating, “I won’t get into the what-ifs.”
Despite his reserved approach, Tomlin has been impressed with Fields’ performance and attitude on the field. “He loves to compete,” Tomlin praised. “He’s got a quiet confidence about him. There’s a clarity in his communication, in his response to communications, that’s really comfortable.”
Fields’ stats speak for themselves – completing 30-of-43 passes for 273 yards with one touchdown and zero interceptions. Additionally, he has rushed 22 times for 84 yards. The Steelers’ game plan has been conservative, with the team ranking 30th in passing attempts but 1st in rushing attempts. Tomlin explained their strategy, saying, “We want to be aggressive in terms of going downfield, but we also want to be prudent because incomplete passes and things of that nature get you behind the sticks.”
Tomlin emphasized the importance of avoiding third-and-long situations, especially early in the season when the team is still developing and adjusting to new players in key positions. “It’s important, guys, in September that you avoid third-and-long, particularly if your first two games are on the road,” Tomlin said. “We have been really thoughtful and intentional about our approach to business through the first two weeks because of environmental reasons and our lack of collective development.”
As the Steelers prepare to take on the Chargers in Week 3, all eyes will be on Fields to see if he can continue his success and potentially open up the passing game more. Steelers fans are eager to see how the young quarterback handles the pressure against a tough opponent like Los Angeles.
