Former Steelers Rival Bill Belichick Praises Mike Tomlin For Brutal Decision

The Pittsburgh Steelers entered into their Week 7 home matchup against the New York Jets with a lot of noise. This stemmed from the fact that Justin Fields had been starting in place of an injured Russell Wilson. Fields did a good job holding down the fort while Wilson healed his calf injury, accounting for 10 touchdowns and effectively protecting the football, and securing a 4-2 record. 

Reports emerged that many within the organization wanted Mike Tomlin to stick with Fields as the quarterback, concerned about disrupting the momentum that had been building. However, Tomlin had other plans, driven by curiosity about what Wilson could bring to the lineup.

Despite the clamor for Fields to remain under center, Tomlin made the bold decision to reinstate Wilson as the starting quarterback. This choice was not without its skeptics, as some believed it risked undermining the progress the team had made. Yet, Tomlin was unwavering, feeling that Wilson's experience and skill set could elevate the team further. This gamble proved fruitful, leading to a dominant 37-15 victory over the Jets on Sunday Night Football.

In the aftermath of the game, Tomlin’s decision received a notable endorsement from former Steelers rival Head Coach Bill Belichick. Known for his strategic acumen and years of competition against Tomlin while leading the New England Patriots, Belichick joined The Pat McAfee Show to praise Tomlin for his courageous move. 

"For example, Pittsburgh you know going with Russell Wilson last night to kind of see what he gives them and what that is relevant to Fields," Belichick said. "Honestly, they will probably need both guys but at least Coach Tomlin has a good feel now."

Hearing Belichick sing the praises of Tomlin is a morale booster for Steeler Nation. Although Belichick is no longer coaching in the NFL, his opinions still carry significant weight in the league. 

He acknowledged that Tomlin deserves a great deal of credit for making the bold decision to start Wilson, despite Fields' impressive play. Belichick believes this strategic choice positions the Steelers even better for success moving forward.

“You’ve got to give Coach Tomlin a lot of credit," Belichick said. "As usual, he makes a lot of good moves and knows this team extremely well. Now he knows what he has with Wilson and he knows what he has in Fields. You know that’s a good thing to have halfway through the season and have two guys that you can count on.”

This validation from a coaching legend not only bolsters Tomlin's reputation but also underscores the potential for Wilson to reinvigorate the Steelers' offense as they aim to build on their momentum in the second half of the season. With a current record of 5-2, the Steelers are making waves in the AFC.

Earlier in the 2024 season, Belichick made headlines by stating that the Steelers might have the best quarterback situation in the league—a claim that seems even more accurate now. 

Fields did a commendable job in Wilson's absence, but Wilson's performance has elevated expectations even further. Tomlin now has a clearer understanding of what he has in both quarterbacks, allowing him to feel confident about the depth of his quarterback room for the remainder of the season.

Steelers' Wilson Made The Offense Shine Bright During Sunday Night Against The Jets

The Steelers have been dominant on defense and special teams, but the offense had been the weaker link—until now. With Wilson at the helm, the offensive dynamics transformed dramatically. George Pickens shined with five catches for 111 yards and a touchdown, while Wilson threw for 264 yards, two passing touchdowns, and added a rushing touchdown, accounting for three scores overall. 

The passing game flourished, the running game showed marked improvement, and even a decimated offensive line couldn't hinder this Steelers offense. Many are now starting to believe that Wilson might just be the answer at quarterback for Pittsburgh.

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