If you’re just feeling plain sad after the Pittsburgh Steelers were eliminated from the playoffs today, this may make you feel angry.
During the second half of the game, CBS play-by-play announcer said Mike Tomlin offered a glowing endorsement of OC Randy Fichtner and the job he’s done this season.
Here’s what Eagle said at the 3:30 mark of the third quarter in the Steelers’ 28-10 loss Sunday.
“We asked Mike Tomlin about the job Randy Fichtner’s done. He said he’s been fantastic. He’s dealt with a lot. His positive attitude filters down to the other coaches and players. He never complains. He just has a can-do approach to the job.”
Though he didn’t specify, this conversation presumably occurred in a pre-production meeting.
Perspective is important. Fichtner has had a near impossible task of trying to lead this MASH unit that’s featured a revolving door at nearly every position. But clearly, Fichtner has done this offense no favors, failed to elevate the play of any individual, and the offense finished last in too many categories.
In the loss to Baltimore, Pittsburgh mustered only one offensive touchdown – again – ten first downs, and 168 total yards of offense. Devlin Hodges went 9/25 for 95 yards and no touchdowns.
Though most fans want Fichtner fired, based on Tomlin’s endorsement and the close relationship that exists between Fichtner and Ben Roethlisberger, expect him to return as offensive coordinator in 2020. The Steelers aren’t likely to swap OCs in Ben’s final years, that was the reason for promoting Fichtner in the first place, and there aren’t any other in-house options to turn to.
