Twenty years ago, a young Ben Roethlisberger burst onto the NFL scene as a rookie quarterback with the Pittsburgh Steelers, winning all 12 of his regular-season starts. He led the team alongside a dominant defense, and despite a setback in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots, he set a foundation for future success. Roethlisberger went on to become the youngest quarterback to win a Super Bowl, solidifying his place in Steelers history.
Now, two decades later, Justin Fields is stepping into a similar spotlight. Leading the Steelers to their first 2-0 start since 2020, Fields is drawing comparisons and advice from the legendary Roethlisberger. Through his first two games, Fields has completed nearly 70% of his passes and has been remarkably efficient, committing no turnovers. This efficiency helped secure road victories against Atlanta and Denver, where the Steelers' offense managed 18 points and 13 points, respectively.
Leadership and Efficiency
Fields has shown poise beyond his years, a trait that has not gone unnoticed by Roethlisberger. "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," Roethlisberger remarked, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum. The former Steeler understands the need for rhythm and consistency in building a successful team.
The support from Roethlisberger extends beyond mere encouragement. He acknowledged the balance Fields has struck between making plays and preserving the football, a skill that has been critical in the Steelers' recent victories. "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."
No Substitute for Wins
While some might look for gaudy statistics from a quarterback, Roethlisberger pointed out that the most critical metrics are wins and turnovers. "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."
Echoing his sentiment, Roethlisberger shared advice grounded in his own experience: "I would tell him, 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 Road Ahead
As the Steelers move forward with Fields at the helm, the rookie's ability to manage games and lead his team to victory will be put to the test repeatedly. The steady foot of Chris Boswell, who made six field goals in Atlanta, and a resilient defense play crucial roles in supporting Fields’ quest for success.
Looking back at Roethlisberger's rookie season, it's clear that support from teammates and a strong defense were pivotal elements. Bill Cowher, the head coach in 2004, navigated the challenges that arose, including an early injury to Tommy Maddox in Week 2. The Steelers set an AFC record with 15 wins that season, a testament to their strength and cohesion. Yet, Roethlisberger's personal philosophy on the quarterback's role remains a timeless lesson: "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."
Justin Fields appears to be embracing that very ethos, focusing on efficiency, protecting the football, and most importantly, securing victories for his team. The promising start to his tenure as the Steelers' quarterback signals a bright future, and with ongoing support and guidance akin to what Roethlisberger offers, Fields has the potential to carve out his own legacy in Pittsburgh's storied franchise.