Twenty years ago, Ben Roethlisberger burst onto the scene as a rookie quarterback with the Pittsburgh Steelers, leading the team on an undefeated streak over his 12 regular season starts. Now, Justin Fields seems to be charting a similar course, guiding the Steelers to their first 2-0 start since 2020.
Roethlisberger, reflecting on his early days, noted the incredible support he received from a strong defense. Fields, too, is benefiting from a robust defensive squad, which has been crucial in the team's recent victories. The Steelers secured road wins against both Atlanta and Denver, displaying a solid mix of offensive and defensive prowess.
In their matchup against Atlanta, the Steelers managed to edge out an 18-point performance, even as their kicker Chris Boswell, played a pivotal role by successfully nailing six field goals. The game against Denver saw the offense producing 13 points while the defense held firm, further showcasing the team's balanced approach.
Fields, now 2-0 as the Steelers' starting quarterback, has impressed with his efficiency, completing nearly 70% of his passes. Importantly, he has maintained careful control of the ball, not committing any turnovers in those two contests.
Roethlisberger weighed in on Fields' performance, stating, "If Russ is healthy, I'm sticking with Justin. I think that he has earned, deserves the right to stay there." He continued to commend Fields' efficiency and careful handling of the ball, suggesting that these qualities have earned him the right to keep his starting position. "He's been efficient. He's been good with the ball. So I think you've got to stay with him, I really do, and see what happens."
Indeed, Fields' methodical approach resonates with Roethlisberger's own past strategies. "Once you get into a rhythm and you get good things going, you don't want to mess that up. Let's not mess up the rhythm of the team and what's going on, and I think they're building," Roethlisberger remarked, underscoring the importance of maintaining momentum.
Fields’ performance has also been characterized by plays that may not fill the stat sheet but are critical to securing victories. Roethlisberger highlighted this point, saying, "Would you like to see 400 yards and three touchdowns and one rushing touchdown? Of course you would. But you know what else you're going to be happy with? You'll be happy with a guy right now that wasn't even really supposed to probably start this year, going 2-0, taking care of the football, making plays, sometimes out of nothing when guys are getting in."
This emphasis on winning and protecting the football resonates with Roethlisberger’s own career philosophy. "The only stat that matters is a W and the turnovers. You're winning the turnover battle, and you're winning. Don't worry about what people are saying in terms of yards, in terms of touchdowns, in terms of all that. You're winning. At the end of the day, as a quarterback, that's what you want," the veteran quarterback advised, reflecting a pragmatic approach that any young quarterback would do well to emulate.
Roethlisberger's career was marked by a similar focus on results over personal accolades. "I didn't always put up big numbers, but I prided myself in getting wins, and that's what you're supposed to do. As a quarterback, you're supposed to win football games by any means necessary," he shared, summing up the essence of the quarterback's role.
As the Steelers navigate this early part of the season with Justin Fields at the helm, the echoes of Roethlisberger’s rookie year remind fans and players alike of the potential brewing within this team. If Fields continues on this path of steady improvements and crucial wins, the Steelers might just be on their way to another memorable season.