Good Thursday to you Steelers’ Fans!
Despite being given an early exit slip from the playoffs, there’s been no shortage of drama in the headquarters of the Pittsburgh Steelers. I detailed as much last night with this piece right here but there is something else that needs to be discussed. Quite often we take what Mike Tomlin says as gold, especially when it comes to coaching positions and personnel. Earlier this week, Tomlin was quoted as saying there wouldn’t be any changes to the defensive staff. Like you, my jaw dropped and I immediately grabbed my torch and pitchfork. What we have to remember is that we’ve been here before only to see those words didn’t ring true. The Bruce Arians’ “retirement” comes to mind immediately. The decision to ship Arians out was that of Art Rooney II, not Tomlin just as the decision to bring in Todd Haley was Rooney II’s as well and not Tomlin’s. What’s the point? The point is that after giving up that many points in two-straight postseason games, for their to be ZERO changes would be a sign of arrogance and nothing else. I have every hope and belief there are still changes coming on that side of the ball.
Back when Dick LeBeau was shown the door there was some minor hope that Wade Phillips would be brought in. Phillips has been very successful with the 3-4 defense but that never came to pass and he went to LA. Is it possible that after the Pro Bowl (where the Steelers’ staff is coaching) those defensive changes start happening?
Tweet of the Day… Thank YOU AB. Great season.
year 8 ?? thank you to the fans for the support throughout the season. It wasn't the ending we hoped for but we have somethin special here and I can't wait to get after it this off season. It's a blessing to play this game. the 2018 season starts now #staytuned #callgod pic.twitter.com/56S9ejwWSD
— Antonio Brown (@AB84) January 17, 2018
Tyler Matakevich, who had surgery on his shoulder this week, will be an interesting guy next season. His minutes at linebacker came to a screeching halt following his initial time in place of Ryan Shazier. He’s an excellent special teams’ player but if he can’t contribute more at LB, does he stay around?
My opinions on Todd Haley are no more important than anyone else’s but some of the takes on him are just flat out wrong. Stop being impressed by the big numbers and what his guys have done for your “fantasy team.” His in-game management, pregame planning and handling of personnel were far greater reasons for his not returning. Not getting to a Super Bowl didn’t help either.
Obviously Ryan Shazier will not be playing in the Pro Bowl to which he was voted but I hope he gets a chance to go. There are a ton of his fellow Steelers there and being around that atmosphere would be great for him I would think.
Have a great day Steeler Nation!
