Pittsburgh Steelers finally bench Justin Fields?

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Steelers lost their first game of the season, and even though it was only by three points, it felt like much more. When you add up poor coaching decisions, a terrible offensive performance, turnovers and a struggling defense, the black and gold left Indianapolis with a 3-1 record and a lot to be proud of.

During the loss, Justin Fields made a terrible-looking fumble that quickly reminded everyone what the floor looks like for the young quarterback. However, his rebounding back was nearly perfect as Fields made Steelers history by becoming the first QB to throw for 300 yards, rush for 50 yards and score three touchdowns.

Still, the Steelers have to make a decision now. Head coach Mike Tomlin has avoided the question for four weeks, focusing on the question of “when” Russell Wilson will be healthy and when the team would decide who the long-term starter will be this season. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Wilson is “close to full health,” which is perfect timing for Fields' first loss.

So are the Steelers making a quarterback change before facing the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5?

The chances are good, yes. Tomlin seems committed to making Wilson the starter regardless of the situation. Maybe he understands it's easier to switch from Wilson to Fields later in the season with less controversy. Maybe he really believes Wilson is the only quarterback who can lead the Steelers this season.

But they shouldn't make any change. Fields has grown with each game and despite a poor start, he was undoubtedly the best member of the Steelers organization in Week 4 – Tomlin included. In fact, you can place Tomlin much higher on the “Who’s to blame” list than Fields.

However, this team is all about trends. You know what's coming before it comes, and it would be a little surprising if Tomlin went to the press conference this week and told the media Wilson was still injured and Fields would start.

Chances are the conversation will go something like Tomlin saying Wilson is close to a return and that the team would work with both quarterbacks throughout the week before making a decision. Then, similar to all the Mitch Trubisky-Mason Rudolph battles we've seen, it'll be all about Wilson while Fields takes a rep or two with the starters like a normal backup does.

We'll see what happens, but the signs are there. The Steelers knew this day was coming, and even though it shouldn't be here yet, there's a feeling that this is the week that Tomlin makes a quarterback change.

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