Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin during a defensive substitution in the game against the Baltimore Ravens on December 29, 2019 at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore. (Marlon Martin, Marlee Media for Golden Sky Media)BALTIMORE (GSM) — The Steelers have missed the playoffs for the second consecutive year, however faced adversity that enabled them to see the performance of their defensive and offensive depth.
Quarterbacks Mason Rudolph and “Duck” Hodges both received a chance to prove if they are the heir to the throne after Ben Roethlisberger finally retires. Defensive end Isaiah Buggs received playing time after all-pro d-lineman Stephon Tuitt was placed on injured reserve following a pectoral tear. And who could forget the running back carousel between James Connor, Jaylen Samuels, Benny Snell Jr. and Kerrith Whyte?
Throughout the season, Coach Tomlin often mentioned how adversity was an obstacle that he had to overcome. Nonetheless, his team fell short of reaching the postseason this year after a more than impressive run with many of the starters hurt. Despite their shortcomings, Coach Tomlin performed exceptionally well under the circumstances.
After the final game of the year vs the Ravens, Coach Tomlin responded to a question from Golden Sky Media, saying, “I appreciated their efforts today, but not only today, all season. We’re not trying to assess it too much, to make too many broad statements.”
The Steelers will now focus on the draft and solidifying their franchise tags for players that have made a significant contribution for the team thus far.