CINCINNATI — The Pittsburgh Steelers have begun implementing more and more of quarterback Justin Fields into their offensive game plan. Over the past two weeks, Fields’ snap count his increased from four percent (three snaps) to 10 percent (seven snaps).
It’s fair to predict that trend will continue, too, since Fields has proven to be a difference maker with his legs, rushing for 43 yards on five carries (8.6 yards per carry) the past two games.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has also acknowledged that it forces their opponents to spend some extra time preparing for Fields.
“It’s a component of what we do. I’ve been pretty clear about that,” Tomlin said. “Once Justin got healthy, he’s a viable and capable dude, and it’s something that our opponents have to be aware of. When we use it and how much we utilize it will be dependent on plans week to week.”
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However, is the time that the Steelers are spending to devise such packages for Fields worth the the time it requires opponents to spend preparing for it?
Tomlin seems to think so, saying that while the team continues to use Fields more, most of the plays being run are nothing new.
“You know, this is a component of what we do. Justin has been here all year, and we always want to highlight individual skill-sets,” Tomlin said. “So I don’t know that the things we’re running present day regarding his package is anything new for us. Most of these concepts we’ve been working since the spring, and so it is not a significant endeavor for us. It’s just simply getting them into the game and identifying a package of plays relative to the opponent that we want to execute.”
The Steelers are still trying to fix their red zone issues as well, and Fields could prove to be an answer when they get inside the 20-yard line. So don’t be surprised if Fields’ snap count rises once again against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday.
If Fields can make a big play, it will surely catch the attention of the Steelers upcoming opponents.
Alan Saunders provided reporting from Pittsburgh.