Mike Tomlin knows what he’s doing. While I understand your reservations about that statement considering his postseason failures recently, he really does have a pretty solid grasp on this head coaching thing. With four games left, including three over the course of ten days, Tomlin has his Pittsburgh Steelers in a very positive spot.
The reason I say “he knows what he’s doing” is that he finally has a guy at quarterback again that he can trust. Russell Wilson isn’t perfect. He can hold the ball too long and he can miss some throws but Tomlin also knows that Wilson has the qualities he needs to get that desperately needed postseason win.
Sunday’s win over Cleveland was a perfect example of why Tomlin brought Wilson to Pittsburgh. After a first half that was less than stellar, Wilson remained patient and threw two TD passes to help get the 27-14 win. The first of his two scoring throws came in a situation reminiscent of the Ben Roethlisberger days. With a personnel change coming in while in the Red Zone, Wilson appeared to wave them back. He called the play and executed it to perfection with his run fake and throw to Van Jefferson.
Wilson’s second TD throw to Pat Freiermuth was equally impressive as he looked off the safety and threw a dart to his tight end for six. Touchdown passes are obviously what you want from your quarterback. But Wilson is offering much more right now.
Watch his interviews. There’s enthusiasm but there’s also a calm sense to him as well. He’s exactly what this young offensive line needs in the huddle too. Wilson often exudes confidence and to some, it may seem “fake” or a bit “overboard” but Wilson is the genuine article. What we see as fans is exactly who Wilson is and as corny as he appears with his “Let’s ride” days in Denver, he isn’t putting on appearances.
This is exactly why Mike Tomlin wanted him. Whether or not Wilson leads the Steelers to an AFC North title, the postseason, a playoff win or even a Super Bowl still isn’t known but credit Tomlin for bringing Wilson into Pittsburgh. He’s what has been needed at the current time.
