Audio from Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin press conference on Tuesday November 16th, 2010. Tomlin met the media on Tuesday for upcoming week 11 game against the Oakland Raiders and goes over the upcoming Sunday game. Tomlin takes questions from the local media and goes over the injuries. Check out our notes and recap below as we add them. Will be updated over next hour.
[audio:https://steelersdepot.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/mike-tomlin-press-conference-nov-16-2010-full.mp3|titles=Steelers HC Mike Tomlin Press Conference Tuesday November 16th Week 11 Raiders]Tomlin confirmed the release of kicker Jeff Reed and the signing of Shaun Suisham. Suisham was the only player to workout on Tuesday. Tomlin says Suisham is no stranger to the elements being from Canada. Tomlin says the off-field antics of Reed did not play a part in the decision to waive Reed and said Suiham is a veteran guy and a good kickoff guy as well.
S Will Allen (concussion) and CB Crezdon Butler (quad strain) are questionable. DE Brett Keisel (hamstring) likely not ready, but will see where he is. Same with G Chris Kemoeatu (ankle) and LB Lawrence Timmons (hip) who hopefully will be ready. S Troy Polamalu right Achilles strain might be limited early in week. WR Hines Ward (concussion) should be good to go.
Tomlin says they are familiar with Raiders quarterback Jason Campbell and knows he throws a great long ball. Receivers Louis Murphy, Darrius Heyward-Bey and Jacoby Ford are solid. Tomlin called Raiders tight end Zach Miller a complete player and went on to see they have a deep group of running backs led by Darren McFadden. Says Michael Bush is a good power back and they utilize their fullback well. Tomlin says they can pound you with the run and throw the ball vertically as well.
Tomlin highlighted that Raiders Tommy Kelly and Richard Seymour are solid on the defensive line. Noted linebacker Rolando McClain and said the Raiders secondary include plenty of fast guys.
Tomlin went on to say that the Raiders special teams have been a difference maker for them.
Jonathan Scott remains the starting left tackle according to Tomlin and if Kemoeatu is not ready, Ramon Foster will play left guard again.
No changes at cornerback despite the poor performance Sunday night. Tomlin said pass defense is a culmination of a lot of people and noted that several passes were underneath throws that did not involve cornerback play. Says we all accept responsibility for the problems.
