I would not use a pillow block -- but that depends on where you're located. Ice can really screw up a footing (or lack of).

I would tick with a traditional footing and concrete tube-fill. Figure your loads, etc. and then over-build a bit -- if you can. Nothing worse than seeing a deck jacked up by ice damage.

OTOH, if ice isn't a concern, then you have to deal with sinking, etc.

Good Luck,

Pete