The Pittsburgh Steelers are anticipated to have quarterback Justin Fields start for the second consecutive game in Week 2.
Before their away game against the Denver Broncos, Fields shared a message on Instagram that said, “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” He also included “1-0” following the quote.
Shortly after the post was shared, it gained significant traction on social media, with fans, teammates, and athletes expressing their support.
Steelers edge rusher **T.J. Watt** chimed in with a simple “🔋🔋🔋,” while linebacker **Patrick Queen** encouraged, “Let em know 2!!” Fellow Steelers linebacker **Mark Robinson** added, “Yessirrr 🔥,” among other supportive comments from Pittsburgh fans.
From outside the Steelers organization, **David Montgomery**, a running back for the Detroit Lions and former teammate of the Chicago Bears, commented, “They hate to see you evolving!! I knew it was inevitable 🤍🤍🤍.” Bears backup quarterback **Tyson Bagent** also showed his support with a couple of “🔥” emojis directed at **Justin Fields**. Additionally, former NBA point guard **Nate Robinson** offered encouragement, saying, “Keep ur chin high young fella, it’s ur time to shine!! GODBLESS ur game bro.”
#### Upcoming Game Insights
As Fields mentioned in his post, the Steelers currently hold a 1-0 record, and their focus is on returning to Pittsburgh with a 2-0 record.
Mike DeFabo from The Athletic noted that the Steelers’ defense is expected to challenge Denver rookie quarterback **Bo Nix** significantly. He pointed out that Fields’ passing in Week 1 was limited, with few attempts over the middle and minimal passes beyond 10 yards. This was partly due to Fields’ inconsistency in throwing accurately from the pocket throughout his career. DeFabo suggested that the Steelers’ new offensive strategy was designed to protect the ball and build Fields’ confidence, while allowing the strong defense to take charge. He anticipates that they may open up the offense more in Week 2.
DeFabo concluded that if Fields can maintain ball security, he favors Pittsburgh in what he predicts will be another “wonky, low-scoring” game.
#### Importance of the Run Game
Despite the spotlight on Fields and Wilson this summer, the Steelers’ success in 2024 will likely hinge on their defense and running game.
Ted Nguyen, also from The Athletic, emphasized the significance of the run game ahead of Week 2. He stated that it will be the Steelers’ driving force, regardless of who is at quarterback. With the team transitioning to offensive coordinator **Arthur Smith’s** outside zone scheme, Nguyen noted that it takes time for the offensive line to adapt. He highlighted that while the Steelers managed 106 rushing yards against the Atlanta Falcons, their average was only 2.9 yards per carry, with a 38.9 percent success rate on designed runs. Nguyen attributed some of the struggles to missed assignments and poor reads by the running backs.
He described running back **Najee Harris** as “a bit indecisive” in the new scheme, while **Jaylen Warren** was limited due to injury. Nguyen expects the running game to improve with more carries for Warren and mentioned that the full offensive package for Fields has yet to be implemented.
Leave a Reply