The Steelers have very little time to lick their wounds suffered in Saturday’s 34-17 loss to Baltimore, as they prepare to host 14-1 Kansas City in a Christmas Day game this Wednesday at Acrisure Stadium.
Despite the short turnaround, Coach Mike Tomlin gave the team off yesterday so they can recover and get healthy for Wednesday afternoon. Instead, Tomlin held his weekly news conference and provided some insight on Saturday’s loss to Baltimore, a preview of the Chiefs, and an update on the Steelers’ injury front, which has been loaded with starters over the past few weeks.
Tomlin said the Steelers’ lackluster defense failed to stop Baltimore in key moments on Saturday, which to him, is inexcusable.
Tomlin said injuries have forced him and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin to get creative with personnel, and that has created issues.
Tomlin adds the defense needs to pick things up this Wednesday when they go against Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who can attack opposing defenses on the ground or through the air.
The Steelers could find some extra presents under the tree Wednesday morning in terms of starters returning to the lineup. Wide receiver George Pickens has a “real chance” to play, according to Tomlin. He was held out the last two weeks with a grade two hamstring injury. Quarterback Justin Fields, safety DeShon Elliott, cornerback Donte Jackson, and defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi are also expected to play against Kansas City.
Even though no practice was held, the team did release a simulated injury report. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who left Saturday’s game with a knee injury, was listed as a non-participant, along with wide receiver Ben Skowronek, who left with a hip ailment.
The Steelers still hold the lead over Baltimore in the AFC North. Both teams have already clinched a playoff spot, but the Steelers need to win out if they want to clinch the division. Cincinnati is still in the Wild Card hunt at 7-8. Cleveland was eliminated.
Wednesday’s game will NOT be broadcast on WDAD.
NFL
Week 16 wraps up tonight with the Packers hosting the Saints at Lambeau Field.
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