Mike Tomlin says he looks forward to playing AFC North opponents as the Steelers get toward the back end of the season. The Steelers play their third straight division game this Sunday at Cincinnati, and they’ll play another next week. Tomlin held his weekly media appearance yesterday. He says late-season division games are a chance to have an impact on the standings without relying on other teams.
The Bengals have one of the top passing duos in the NFL with Joe Burrow throwing to Jamar Chase, who is noted not only for catching the ball but racking up yards after the catch. Tomlin says the Steelers’ entire secondary will be challenged by Chase.
Tomlin wasn’t ready to say how or when Justin Fields will be used as the “changeup” quarterback this week, but he says he’s more interested in the disruption Fields can cause an opposing defense than the potential for disrupting his own offense’s rhythm.
Edge rusher TJ Watt is not having as productive a year statistically as he has in the past, but Tomlin isn’t concerned. Watt has only 31 tackles this season, and just 7-and-a-half sacks. He does have four forced fumbles.
The coach says defenses are scheming around Watt with double teams and designing plays that run away from him, and that opens up opportunities for better coverage in the secondary, and with other pass rushers.
Tomlin was also asked about wide receiver George Pickens’ incendiary comments about the Browns after last week’s loss.
He says his players have to own what they say.
Tomlin said linebacker Alex Highsmith is “leaning in” on returning to action after missing the last two games with an ankle injury. He also said he’ll “leave the door open” for the possible return of cornerback Corey Trice and defensive lineman Montravius Adams from injured reserve.
The official injury reports from both teams are due today.
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