After coaching the Pittsburgh Steelers for nearly two decades, Mike Tomlin has built an impressive resume, giving him a well-earned reputation around the league. Many of his former players, coaches and opponents have nothing but respect for him.
That includes former Super Bowl champion Mike McCarthy, who was an NFL head coach for 18 seasons with the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys.
Appearing on Thursday’s episode of “The Pat McAfee Show,” McCarthy was quick to defend Tomlin from all the criticism he’s received over the Steelers’ recent skid.
“I have the utmost respect for Mike Tomlin,” McCarthy said. “I’ve competed against Mike, and I think Mike is really starting the second half of a Hall of Fame career…he can coach as long a he wants.”
Tomlin’s already won a Super Bowl and has never had a losing record, so his accomplishments speak for themselves.
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Tomlin hasn’t had a playoff win in nearly nine years, however, which is an issue. Pittsburgh has also declined in all areas over the last calendary year, suggesting Tomlin is losing his fastball.
McCarthy also spoke about the Steelers’ upcoming game against the Baltimore Ravens this weekend with first place in the AFC North on the line. That will be an important test for Tomlin, who needs to prove he’s still capable of winning big games.
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Because if Pittsburgh keeps losing, the team might need to start thinking about finding a new coach.
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Featured image via Barry Reeger/Imagn Images