The Steelers were back on the practice field a day earlier than they probably expected after their season finale against Cincinnati was flexed to Saturday night on Monday. The team did have a few extra days to rest following a grueling three-game stretch over 10 days, all of which resulted in blowout losses.
Coach Mike Tomlin met with reporters yesterday and the main message he conveyed was that the team “needs to get the stench off of us.” He adds that stench can be washed away with a win over the Bengals, and even more so if they can claim the AFC North from the Ravens if they lose to Cleveland on Saturday.
The Steelers should know their fate for the playoffs shortly before kickoff Saturday night. If Baltimore wins their game, they win the division and Pittsburgh will be relegated to a Wild Card spot, either the fifth or sixth seed. The latter would set up a rematch between the Ravens and Steelers in Baltimore.
Tomlin said no matter who they face in the playoffs, he’s not thinking ahead about sitting his starters.
Along with that, Tomlin said cornerback Joey Porter Jr. and wide receiver/specialist Ben Skowronek are trending in the right direction to play on Saturday. Both of them missed the last two games with different injuries.
Tomlin said getting those two back before a prime AFC North showdown is big.
Since losing to the Steelers on December 1, the Bengals have won four straight games over Dallas, Denver, Cleveland, and Tennessee.
Tomlin said the reason for Cincy’s hot streak is their defense.
Tomlin adds Joe Burrow has done a formidable job spreading the ball around on offense.
Cornerback Cory Trice Jr. and running back Jaylen Warren are both dealing with bumps and bruises to start the week, according to Tomlin. They will be limited in practice to start, but both should be good to play Saturday.
Once again, Steelers greats Hines Ward and James Harrison were left off the list of 15 modern-era finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Headlining this year’s list are former Giants quarterback Eli Manning, Carolina greats Steve Smith, Sr., and Luke Keuchly, linebacker Terrell Suggs, tight end Antonio Gates, receivers Torry Holt and Reggie Wayne, and tight end Sterling Sharpe.
The selection committee will vote next month on three-to-five players for the Hall of Fame. That list will be announced during the week of the Super Bowl.
