Steelers' Arthur Smith Encouraged By Russell Wilson's Confidence On Sunday: "There Was No Panic In Him"

The Pittsburgh Steelers' Sunday night win against the New York Jets was huge, but at the beginning of the game, it didn't look like it was going to be a good night. Russell Wilson had his first start of the season in Pittsburgh and it got off to a rocky start. The first drive was decent, ending in three points from Chris Boswell. The next few drives were worrisome. Wilson wasn't accurate on some easy throws and receivers were dropping balls that were on target. After the Jets went up 15-6, boos were echoing in Acrisure Stadium, the fans wanting Justin Fields back in. Wilson didn't let that faze him.

Wilson ended up throwing for 264 yards and two touchdowns, a stat line that didn't seem to be possible during the first half. When asked about Wilson's response Sunday, Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith praised Wilson's ability to come back strong against the Jets.

Smith seemed to want Fields as his quarterback after he didn't directly answer a question last Thursday on the possibility of Wilson starting. He focused more on how Fields has been instrumental to the offense. The decision was ultimately up to Head Coach Mike Tomlin on who would start at quarterback. A report came out Sunday afternoon that Tomlin went "lone ranger" on his decision to start Wilson, even with personnel in the Steelers' organization wanting Fields.

Tomlin knew this would be one of the biggest decisions he's had to make in a while. While it seemed to be the wrong decision at first, it ultimately ended up working out for now. Wilson only continued to look better throughout the game, connecting with George Pickens on multiple beautiful deep balls. The passing game definitely improved with Wilson and it allowed Smith to open up the playbook more for his offense. Smith seemed to be proud of his new starting quarterback when talking about Wilson Thursday, despite what he might've preferred last week.

"There was no panic in him, he's an upbeat person," said Smith. "You really get to see who someone is by their actions."

Even though it was one game, the whole team played like they could easily win a playoff game this postseason. The defense made stops when it needed to and the offense scored to continue its lead. Monday night's game against the New York Giants will showcase if the Steelers can stay consistent. It's important not to underestimate the Giants, but in another prime time game at home, it's a game they should win.

Steelers Could Use A Package Deal With Wilson And Fields

Wilson gave the Steelers' offense what it's been looking for: an efficient passing game. It's known the Steelers need a better wide receiver room, but Wilson was giving receivers like Van Jefferson and Calvin Austin III the chance to make plays. One thing that Wilson lacks is his running ability vs. what Fields has to offer. There were times when Wilson could run for a first down or at least get some yardage Sunday night, but he ended up throwing it. The Steelers' running game was dangerous when Fields was in. Where he lacked with his arm he made up with his legs.

It's clear for now Wilson needs to start, but Fields could come in on some situations to keep the drive going. Whether it's a short third down play or in the red zone, Fields could still be a valuable part to this offense. However, Tomlin didn't feel the need to play Fields right now as he said in his postgame press conference Sunday he didn't think about utilizing Fields in the game against the Jets.

Do you think Wilson will continue to play strong? Let us know in the comments below!

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