Wilson's Three Touchdowns Validate Tomlin's Decision as Steelers Defeat Jets 37-15

Oct 21, 2024, 12:28 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin made the surprising decision to start quarterback Russell Wilson over Justin Fields in the Sunday Night Football matchup against the New York Jets, admitting he went 'Lone Ranger' with the call despite internal disagreement within the organization. Wilson, who missed the first six games of the season due to a calf injury and hadn't played since December 24 of the previous year, made his Steelers debut at Acrisure Stadium. The decision paid off as Wilson led the Steelers to a commanding 37-15 victory over the Jets. He completed 16 of 29 passes for 264 yards and two touchdowns, achieving a passer rating of 109.0. Wilson also ran for a one-yard touchdown, totaling three touchdowns in the game. His performance marked the most passing yards by a quarterback in their first game with the Steelers in franchise history, surpassing Earl Morrall's 249 yards in 1957. Wilson became the first Steelers quarterback to lead the team to 30 or more points in his starting debut since quarterback starts were first tracked in 1950. Wide receiver George Pickens was a key target for Wilson, recording five receptions for 111 yards and a touchdown, including a 44-yard deep pass that jumpstarted a scoring drive. Wilson also connected with Calvin Austin III on a 36-yard completion. The Steelers overcame an early deficit, scoring 24 unanswered points after trailing 15-6. The win improved Pittsburgh's record to 5-2, while the Jets fell to 2-5. The victory affirmed Tomlin's decision, as Wilson demonstrated he has the right to start and command the offense.