STEELERS HEAD COACH MIKE TOMLIN
A lot to work on, but in terms of how the game unfolded, the significant difference is they got seven points off their turnover on the short field; we got zero off of ours,” said Coach Mike Tomlin. “So that’s the difference in the game. Usually, it is the turnover component and your ability to support each other on the other side of it or inability, and that was the difference in the game in terms of outcome. So, that’s disappointing.
From a health standpoint, Alex Highsmith wasn’t able to return. A neck injury of some description. I’ll have more information for you obviously next time we come together.
Compliment those guys. They made the necessary plays; we didn’t. I thought we fought in the second half, but to come up short on the turnover in terms of the points is the difference in the game.
What went into the fourth and two call and was that the primary call?
It was. We were down there. We play to win. We wanted to be aggressive. We just didn’t get it done.
What did you see on the punt there at the end when they called on Christian [Kuntz]?
I was given an explanation. I don’t know that I agree with it, but I was given an explanation.
What led to the issues stopping Bailey Zappe in the first half?
You know, they did a nice job early on in the game. We got out-leveraged some, you know, so you’ve got to give them credit.
What did you see out of Mitch Trubisky tonight?
I thought he got better as the game went on. Obviously, it wasn’t the type of start we needed. They were really good on possession downs. They’re collective, the things they threw at him and us. But I thought he improved as the game went on.
Mike, back-to-back games where the opposing tight end has a big game. What’s been the challenge defending the tight end the last couple of weeks?
You know, we’re minus some of our people in there and just trying to find the correct mix. And we’ve played some good tight ends, so that’s kind of been a component as well.
With back-to-back losses to these teams, where do you go from here?
We get ready for our next opportunity next week. It’s what we always do. Obviously, this stings but we’ll be back.
At any point did you consider putting Mason Rudolph in the game?
What gives you the confidence that you guys can be back after two losses?
Because this is what we do. This is who we are.