Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin held his usual Tuesday press conference today on the South Side, two days after the win against the Baltimore Ravens. As the Steelers get ready for the Tennessee Titans, Tomlin said it is another big game as the Titans are in the pole position of the AFC. Tomlin praised head coach Jeff Fisher, running backs LenDale White who is the power guy and Chris Johnson the speed guy. Both backs have combined for over 1800 yards rushing and 22 touchdowns. Tomlin noted that quarterback Kerry Collins utilizes all of his receivers. On the defensive side, Tomlin praised Jevon Kearse and Keith Bulluck in particular.
Injury wise, Tomlin said a bunch of players have bumps and bruises that may limit them early in the week, but health wise the team is in great shape. Defensive end Brett Keisel will get some serious consideration this week as he tries to return from a knee injury. Tackle Marvel Smith still remains status quo with his back injury and will remain sidelined. Tomlin said the Steelers are getting healthy at the right time.
Tomlin said he will take wins however he can get them in response to being asked about playing from behind as of late in the fourth quarter. Tomlin said there are no style points given. Tomlin had no take on the ruling of the game winning touchdown by Santonio Holmes against the Ravens, but said he was sure it would be a motivating factor in future games versus Baltimore. Tomlin said the team will be measured on how they deal with week to week success. Tomlin went on to defend the spiking of the ball on first down late in the game on the final drive.
Tomlin said that running back Willie Parker was made a game captain against the Ravens, because it was the appropriate thing to do in light of the past week events.
