PITTSBURGH — With a robust defense and a running-focused offense, the Pittsburgh Steelers are kicking off a season that combines hope and some uncertainty at the quarterback position. This scenario feels familiar to the franchise, reminiscent of past team dynamics even though coach Mike Tomlin and quarterback Russell Wilson may not have experienced it directly.

Reflecting back to fifty years ago, the legendary “Steel Curtain” defense was at its peak under the leadership of Joe Greene. The running game was effectively backed by the dynamic duo of Franco Harris and Rocky Bleier, while rookie wide receivers Lynn Swann and John Stallworth brought some much-needed depth to the air attack. Despite a strong start with a 4-1-1 record in the initial six weeks, something seemed amiss. Coach Chuck Noll sensed the tension as Joe Gilliam, who began as quarterback after Terry Bradshaw’s preseason injury, struggled with a dismal ratio of four touchdowns to eight interceptions. This poor performance forced Noll to reconsider his options, returning to Bradshaw and even contemplating a third-string player.

The ongoing quarterback changes could have created discord, and they surely did in some respects. Greene experienced frustration so deep that he considered quitting after a defeat to the Houston Oilers but was ultimately convinced to stay by the receivers coach. Eventually, Bradshaw found his rhythm, leading the Steelers to secure their first Super Bowl title by season’s end.

During a celebration marking the 50th anniversary of the legendary 1974 team, Swann reflected on that tumultuous journey, emphasizing the significance of their ultimate achievement. “Chuck was going to do what Chuck was going to do,” Swann shared. “As players, we understood we just needed to perform our roles, no matter who was under center,” adding that he had caught his first pro touchdown from Gilliam but was equally comfortable playing with Bradshaw or Hanratty.

After Sunday’s win, which saw the Steelers triumph 37-15 against the New York Jets bringing their record to 5-2, linebacker Patrick Queen echoed a reassuring sentiment concerning Wilson and backup-turned-starter-turned-backup Justin Fields. “We have a lot of trust in both those guys,” Queen stated. “Justin did an excellent job, and now Russ has stepped in and also performed well. We are confident that whoever is behind the line will give us a chance at victory.”

Wilson’s performance in his first regular-season game in ten months provided glimpses of the potential Tomlin and first-year offensive coordinator Arthur Smith envision for the Steelers. He completed 16 out of 29 passes for 264 yards, registering two touchdown passes alongside one touchdown run. Receiver George Pickens showed off his skills with five catches for 111 yards, including his season’s first touchdown. Running back Najee Harris broke the 100-yard mark for the second week straight, contributing to the team’s consecutive scoring above 30 points for the first time since 2020.

As expectations surrounding Wilson’s return from a calf injury subsided following the victory, the Steelers began to showcase their confidence anew. “We’re having a blast on the field,” Wilson remarked. “Our practices are enjoyable, and being around each other is great. Coach Tomlin has faith in us all.”

A key aspect contributing to the team’s current success is what Tomlin describes as a “block culture.” The Steelers managed to make a defensive play by deflecting a field goal attempt for the third straight game, stopping the Jets from coming within five points late in the third quarter. The offense capitalized on that opportunity by directing a 75-yard drive for the game-sealing touchdown.

However, the Steelers continue to struggle with slow starts; having only one first-quarter touchdown after seven games. For a team that prefers to take an early lead and lean on their defense, this pattern could pose risks as they face upcoming opponents with playoff ambitions.

Rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop, initially meant to fill in during Cam Sutton’s suspension, has proven himself invaluable. His fearless playmaking on Sunday, culminating in two interceptions that led to touchdowns, indicates he has secured a spot, even upon Sutton’s return.

Tensions also mount for Tomlin’s critics as they question the decision to shift back to Wilson instead of sticking with Fields, who had been performing admirably. Yet Tomlin is aware that for the Steelers to be serious contenders in the AFC, elevating their offensive game is crucial.

As far as injuries are concerned, defensive tackle Montravius Adams exited the game in the first half with a knee injury, while cornerback Donte Jackson suffered a shoulder injury during the second quarter.

A key milestone was reached by Cam Heyward, the veteran defensive tackle, who played his 201st game, tying him with Hall of Famer Donnie Shell for the most games played by a defense player in franchise history.

Looking ahead, the Steelers aim to notch a win against the struggling New York Giants (2-5) on “Monday Night Football” on October 28 to complete their sweep of the Big Apple, specifically northern New Jersey.