The passing chart of Justin Fields gained traction on social media following the Pittsburgh Steelers’ victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 1.
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25617622/GXFC44_XwAAZ6Y2.png)
Fields predominantly threw the ball outside the hashes and avoided targeting the middle of the field. This strategic choice was speculated to be influenced by the presence of two All-Pro safeties in the Falcons’ defense. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith later confirmed this approach.
Smith explained that he intentionally directed Fields not to target the middle of the field to prevent Jessie Bates from impacting the game and causing turnovers.
“Our Jason Bourne, T.J. Watt, dominated the game – their player did not,” Smith remarked.
Arthur Smith revealed that he made the decision for Justin Fields to avoid throwing in the middle of the field to neutralize Jessie Bates. He expressed his admiration for Bates.
“Our Jason Bourne — TJ Watt — dominated the game, theirs did not.” – Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly) September 12, 2024
Following the game, Smith mentioned that Bates acknowledged the pivotal play involving George Pickens just before halftime that led to the Steelers’ third field goal.
“He admitted, you caught me off guard right before the half,” Smith recounted. “I responded, yes, I strategically lulled you into a false sense of security. Despite being a great player, it was a practical move.”
Arthur Smith shared that Jessie Bates messaged him post-game about the significant play with George Pickens before halftime, where Pickens faced a one-on-one matchup with the CB.
“He admitted, you caught me off guard right before the half. I responded, yes, I strategically lulled you into a false sense of security. And… – Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) September 12, 2024
Smith emphasized the importance of converting opportunities into touchdowns for the Steelers’ offense. However, he found encouragement in their ability to sustain long, time-consuming drives in the opening week.