Mike Tomlin has received a lot of criticism this year, especially during the middle of the season when the Pittsburgh Steelers endured a 2-5 stretch. He’ll catch even more flak if the Steelers lose to the Baltimore Ravens at home on Sunday and blow their playoff berth, which may end up costing him his job if it occurs.
That would be a harsh overreaction, however, given Tomlin’s historic track record. Pittsburgh has never had a losing season under his watch, finishing .500 or better in all 19 of his seasons at the helm.
Former NFL MVP Cam Newton believes Tomlin is a victim of his own success, creating unrealistic expectations among spoiled Steelers fans who haven’t dealt with a losing season in decades.
“He set a standard of expectation so high in Pittsburgh that when it’s not met, he’s to blame,” Newton said on Monday’s episode of “First Take.” “He has been a victim of his own success. Now, if you get rid of him, it’ll be a big mistake because before he could even clear out his desk in Pittsburgh, he will have a job.”
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Newton is right that many NFL teams would kill for a coach like Tomlin and his consistent excellence. Many clubs would be happy with a nine-win season, but not the Steelers.
That said, Tomlin’s recent regular-season success is largely meaningless. Pittsburgh hasn’t won a playoff game in nearly a decade and has the AFC North’s longest drought without a postseason win. That’s not acceptable.
Tomlin’s future with the Steelers may ultimately depend on what happens Sunday. If they beat the Ravens and make the postseason, all will be forgiven. But if they don’t, he may find himself coaching a different team next year.
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