The conversation surrounding Mike Tomlin, the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, has been nothing short of confusing. Despite the team being just one game over .500, there are debates about whether Tomlin should be retained or let go. With two tough upcoming games against the Seattle Seahawks and Baltimore Ravens, the worst-case scenario for the Steelers would be finishing the season with an 8-9 record, snapping Tomlin’s impressive 16-year streak of winning seasons.
It’s important to put the Steelers’ current record into perspective. While they may not be dominating the league, they are still above .500 and in contention for a playoff spot. Many teams would be thrilled with this level of success, yet there are critics who believe Tomlin’s coaching is to blame for the team’s shortcomings.
The recent victory against the Cincinnati Bengals showcased an impressive performance by backup quarterback Mason Rudolph. This anomaly of a game may have triggered frustration among Pittsburgh fans who know the potential of their skill players. However, it’s important to remember that Rudolph’s success in this game does not necessarily indicate a long-term solution at quarterback.
Critics of Tomlin argue that he has been unable to develop a franchise quarterback, citing Kenny Pickett’s regression in his second year. However, it’s unfair to place the blame solely on the coach. Tomlin has successfully managed a wide range of personalities throughout his career, and his ability to keep the team’s locker room in order should not be overlooked.
Furthermore, Tomlin has had success with star players like Antonio Brown, who had some of the most productive years of his career under the coach’s guidance. Even with future Hall of Fame quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who had his fair share of drama, Tomlin was able to maintain control and lead the team to success.
If there is anyone to blame for the current situation, it would be now-retired Pittsburgh General Manager Kevin Colbert. The decision to draft Pickett, a hometown quarterback who may not have been the right fit for the team, put the coaching staff in a difficult position. Pickett’s inconsistent performances have left fans frustrated and longing for a more reliable option at quarterback.
It’s important to be objective when evaluating Tomlin’s coaching abilities. Emotional attachments can cloud judgment, as seen with former Steelers player Ryan Clark, who has made controversial statements about Tomlin. However, the recent game against the Bengals showcased Rudolph’s potential and Pickens’ productivity, which should be considered when evaluating the team’s quarterback situation.
Tomlin’s coaching job should not be solely judged based on this season’s record. He has set high expectations for the team, and the lack of a franchise quarterback has made it challenging to meet those expectations. If the Steelers struggle next season, then it would be appropriate to discuss Tomlin’s future. For now, the primary concern for the team should be finding the right solution at quarterback and supporting the current coaching staff.
