The Pittsburgh Steelers have been the surprise of the NFL season.
At 5-2, the Steelers are currently sitting in first place in the AFC North. Many fans were shocked when the Steelers made a QB change in the midst of all of their winning this season.
Despite leading the team to an impressive 4-2 record while veteran signal-caller Russell Wilson was sidelined with a calf injury, head coach Mike Tomling benched Justin Fields in favor of Wilson when the veteran was healthy again.
Despite many people in the media and fans being outraged over the decision, Wilson paid off his coach’s vote of confidence.
Wilson went 16-for-29 for 264 yards and two passing touchdowns to go along with a rushing touchdown as the Steelers defeated the New York Jets 37-15 on Sunday night. After the game, Wilson was asked about his debut in Pittsburgh and he was not shy in his response.
“You know, we are in a tremendous situation where we are,” Wilson said, via Sports Illustrated. “You know I think there’s a lot of outside noise that makes it seem like it’s a negative thing and this rivalry internally, but it’s not man.
“I have to give Justin Fields credit, man, just all the things he was able to do, how great he’s been playing. He inspires me every day, how he works. Vice versa. We have a great relationship.
“He’s a tremendous quarterback, he’s a franchise quarterback. He’s a leader, he’s got all the intangibles.” Wilson said. “Whatever I can give to him and show him and just be around him, that’s part of my job.”
The Steelers might have a case for the strongest locker room in the NFL with how well they’re handling such a major quarterback change mid-season.
