Pittsburgh Review

The Steelers concluded their preseason on Saturday in Detroit with a 24-17 loss to the Lions. Despite the outcome, Coach Mike Tomlin highlighted several objectives that were achieved during the game.

"Obviously, we didn't get the job done. We did get a lot of things accomplished that we wanted to get accomplished," said Tomlin. "We talked about some of those things last time we got together. There are dual agendas in a game like this. We wanted to get our starters some in-stadium rhythm that was kind of reflective of some of the things that we've seen in practice. We were able to do that."

Tomlin added, "And as soon as we got comfortable with some of those things, we moved on to provide ample opportunity for those who are trying to find one or two final seats on the bus, give them a space in which to do that."

Russell Wilson started at quarterback for the Steelers and led them to a touchdown on the opening drive, his only action along with most of the starting offense.

"We just needed results that are indicative of how we've worked," said Tomlin. "They were able to put together a scoring drive and really just provided an opportunity to get Justin (Fields) in there sooner. So, that's why we did it."

Fields took over after the first series and played into the second quarter, also leading a touchdown drive.

"They both moved the ball. They won possession downs," said Tomlin. "We put the ball in the end zone. Things that we hadn't done to this point sufficiently enough in the preseason."

Tomlin did not make an announcement regarding who will start at quarterback for the regular season opener against Atlanta Falcons on Sept. 8.

"We'll make a decision at the end of our work week this upcoming week," said Tomlin. "We've got three days of Steelers versus Steelers work... We've got ample time to prepare for Atlanta and make whatever decisions or announcements regarding division of labor or pecking orders and so forth."

Regarding injuries, Tomlin noted rookie defensive back Ryan Watts was injured late in the game.

"We had some bumps and bruises in play," said Tomlin. "Cory Trice had a groin [injury]. Julius (Welschof) had a knee [injury], that's being evaluated... Ryan Watts... can be described as a stinger, but he's still being evaluated."

Wilson expressed satisfaction with his brief playing time.

"I thought we did a really good job as a collective effort on offense, how we move the ball," said Wilson. He highlighted George Pickens' performance: "George doing a great job on that third and 11 conversion... It was a great team effort."

Wilson explained that staying on schedule was key: "Last week we just didn't stay on schedule. This time we did." He emphasized celebrating with teammates: "That's what this game is all about... We've got a lot more work to do..."

After completing his series, Wilson stated he was ready for any role assigned by Coach Tomlin.

"Our number one objective was to go up and down the field and score," said Wilson.

Despite limited reps due to injury during training camp, Wilson felt prepared for regular season action.

"I was able to get a lot of reps... even though I was out, I was getting mental ones," he noted.

Wilson remains focused despite uncertainty about his starting status.

"I'm just focused on being the best teammate I can be," he said. "For me personally, I want to help this team win... Hopefully by the end of it all, it's all worth it."