Mike Tomlin Names Russell Wilson as Starting Quarterback for Steelers Against Jets

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20/10/2024 22h47

### Tomlin's Game-Time Decision: Russell Wilson Starts for Steelers Against Jets

In an unexpected move, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has decided to start Russell Wilson at quarterback in their game against the New York Jets tonight. This move came after Tomlin made a unilateral decision, opting to take full responsibility if it doesn't pan out.

During an interview on FOX NFL Sunday, insider Jay Glazer revealed his conversation with Tomlin. "He said, look, I went lone ranger on it," Glazer reported. "If it doesn't work out, I'll take the heat. I'll shoulder the blame." Despite internal preferences within the Steelers organization to stick with Justin Fields as the starter, Tomlin emphasized the team's goal of winning a Super Bowl and expressed a desire to explore all options at the quarterback position.

"I wanna at least see what I have from him, exhaust all options, and then make a decision down the stretch," Tomlin told Glazer. "He said I'm not trying to win games. I'm trying to win a world title here. I gotta see what I have in both."

Interestingly, the decision doesn't come as a complete surprise given the original intention to start Wilson after signing him. However, Wilson's calf injury, which he re-aggravated before Week 1, had previously kept him from taking on the starting role. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and other supporters within the organization were reportedly inclined to continue with Fields, who led the team to a 4-2 record.

Tomlin's gamble appears rooted in the belief that Wilson's arm could potentially elevate the Steelers' offensive capabilities, given their struggles with slow starts and an underwhelming passing offense. However, the coach acknowledges the inherent risks, particularly with Pittsburgh's offensive line currently banged-up and Wilson's known tendency to take sacks.

If Wilson's performance falters or the Steelers' overall performance declines, scrutiny will undoubtedly fall on Tomlin for his solo decision. With high stakes riding on the outcome of tonight's game, Tomlin's choice underscores his commitment to pursuing a championship, despite the potential backlash.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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