One of the biggest reasons why Mike Tomlin likely decided to start QB Russell Wilson over Justin Fields is his arm talent, and specifically Wilson’s deep ball. Tight end Pat Freiermuth was the beneficiary of a well-thrown downfield shot from Wilson, as he made an impressive grab on a downfield throw from Wilson to help set up a field goal drive to give the Steelers the lead.
Freiermuth said that Wilson told him on the sideline he saw New York Jets S Jalen Mills grab his arm on his route, which alerted Wilson that he had to put a little more air on the ball to give Freiermuth a chance at it.