3 bold predictions for Justin Fields in Steelers' prove-it Week 2 game vs. Broncos

Justin Fields may have not won the Steelers starting quarterback job out of camp, but he got the Week 1 start due to Russell Wilson's ailing calf. After a quality (if unspectacular) debut, he is poised to be the QB once again against the Broncos in Week 2. Now that he has proven that he can take care of the ball and execute the game plan, what can fans expect from him?

Fields' time with the Chicago Bears is littered with spectacular moments, but also with plenty of bad decisions and game-losing plays. Finding the balance of the incredible and mundane now falls on offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. Will he let Fields loose in Denver? Or will it be more of the safe, underwhelming offense? Here are three bold predictions for Fields in his second game with the Steelers.

Fields accounts for three touchdowns in a big Steelers win

The Steelers offense was kept out of the endzone in their 18-10 victory in Atlanta, but their were plenty of opportunities that they just missed on. Denver's defense isn't a bad unit, but they lack the bodies on the defensive line and at linebacker to consistently shut down the run.

Pittsburgh should be able to control the game on the ground, but I think they will attempt more shots down the field off of that rushing success this week. Fields is one of the best deep passers in the NFL, and George Pickens is one of, if not the, best jump-ball receivers in the NFL. If Arthur Smith gives those two opportunities to link up, we could see a few touchdowns on those chances.

Add in Fields ability as a runner, and two passing touchdowns and a rushing touchdown from him are very possible.

Fields has over 100 yards on the ground against a young defensive line

The Broncos have a young and talented group of edge rushers, but they are largely unproven in the NFL aside from Jonathon Cooper. Fields has always been susceptible to pressure, often taking bad sacks or dropping his eyes and looking to run.

Normally that would be a big issue for a QB, but with the Steelers' offense, it likely won't be as much of a concern. Smith did a great job of giving Fields easy reads with play action, allowing him to either make the throw or take off. With the playcalling helping limit his struggles, Fields can play much faster and with more confidence.

Fields' greatest strength has always been his legs, and he used them often in Week 1 with 14 carries for 57 yards. I think this week will be no different but with more efficiency. He has averaged 6.2 yards per attempt for his career, much more than the 4.1 he did a week ago. 100 yards on the ground is very much on the table.

Fields plays well, and continues to start once Wilson is healthy

If there is one thing everyone knows about Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, it's his affinity for veteran players. It was no surprise after getting terrible QB play in 2023 that he jumped at the chance to add Russell Wilson for basically nothing. The trade for Justin Fields shortly after immediately created a QB controversy, but Wilson ultimately was named the starter.

Now that Fields has gotten a chance to play thanks to Wilson's injured calf, all he has to do is keep playing smart football and win this week. Tomlin has preached wanting his offense to run the ball, avoid turnovers, and capitalize on big play opportunities. That is (mostly) what they did against Atlanta, and if they do it again this week Tomlin will be pleased.

Fields doesn't have to be a super hero like he often was asked to be while in Chicago. If he can continue to prove that he can play under control and do the little things well, I believe the job will remain his to lose. He may even be able to finally develop good habits this season and make himself a viable starting QB option for 2025 and beyond.