Like his Penguins counterpart, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin has a team stuck in a puzzling losing streak. They’ve lost two straight games to 2-10 teams as they begin preparations for this Saturday’s game against the Colts in Indianapolis.
Unlike the Penguins, the Steelers don’t have a lot of time left to correct their course…there are only four games left in the NFL regular season and they are in the middle of a tight playoff race. Tomlin says it’s time to hit the gas pedal.
The Steelers are 7-6 and hold the second Wild Card position in the AFC. The Colts are 7-6 and hold the third position. Four other teams are 7-6 and breathing down their necks for the playoffs. Tomlin says that make Saturday’s game extra important.
Tomlin is not happy with the Steelers’ defense, particularly with its ability to keep teams out of the end zone when they hit the red zone.
He acknowledged that the inside linebackers have been hard hit by injuries, but says the replacement guys will have to get the job done.
The coach says the problems on defense are fixable, but the remedies might not be as simple as plugging new players into the lineup.
Quarterback Kenny Pickett will remain out this week after having ankle surgery. Mitch Trubisky will get the start on Saturday and Mason Rudolph will get more work during the week so he’s ready to go if called upon. Tomlin said outside linebackers TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith remain in concussion protocol. He said inside linebacker Elandon Roberts should be less hindered by his sore groin this week.
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