On Sunday, as the Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a 26-7 defeat to the Buffalo Bills, chants of “Fire Mike Tomlin” resonated throughout Acrisure Stadium. Following the game, ESPN”s Adam Schefter addressed Tomlin”s position during an appearance on “Get Up”.
Shefter acknowledged the team”s disappointing performance, noting, “I know they”re coming off a game in which they allowed more rushing yards in one game in Pittsburgh than the franchise ever has. I know it was a dark, gloomy day. I know the fans want him gone.” He emphasized, however, Tomlin”s impressive record, stating, “We bring up the fact that he hasn”t had a losing season in 18 years in Pittsburgh. He also hasn”t won a playoff game since 2016. In the day and age that we”re living in, for an NFL coach to go that long without winning a playoff game and keep his job is a remarkable accomplishment.” Schefter maintained that this does not diminish Tomlin”s status as a strong coach.
Shefter firmly declared, “First of all, he”s not going to get fired. If they want to move on and decide to part ways, Mike Tomlin automatically will become the No. 1 head coaching candidate. He can become head coach. He can have a desk at any network or chair at any network he wanted. He could do whatever he wanted. I don”t think they”re firing Mike Tomlin. That”s not going to happen.”
Since taking over as head coach in 2007, Tomlin has guided the Steelers to 12 playoff appearances, seven division titles, and a Super Bowl victory in 2008. Even though he has maintained a record of winning seasons in recent years, the team has not reached the same level of success as seen in his earlier tenure.
The loss to the Bills left the Steelers with a 6-6 record for the season, prompting some fans to express their frustration. Tomlin himself acknowledged the discontent, stating, “Man, I share their frustration tonight. We didn”t do enough and that”s just the reality of it,” in response to the calls for his dismissal.
The Steelers” defense struggled significantly, allowing the Bills to pile up 249 rushing yards, marking a franchise record for the most rushing yards surrendered at Acrisure Stadium. The offense also faltered, managing only 166 total yards and committing two turnovers.
With only five games left in the regular season, Tomlin faces the challenge of rallying the team to restore fan confidence. The Steelers will next face off against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday at 1 PM ET, with the game set to be broadcast live on CBS.
