Mike Tomlin’s Strategy for Success: 7-2 and Climbing

Mike Tomlin has become a household name throughout the NFL franchise and the Pittsburgh Steelers fan base since becoming the team’s head coach in 2007. Many believe that he has mastered the art of coaching during his time in Pittsburgh, as he has racked up 180 wins and a Super Bowl title during his 18 years with the team. Tomlin has continued the Steelers’ legacy of resilience and grit, something he was able to accomplish primarily through staying true to his strategy. This strategy is characterized by taking risks, and the head coach has used it continually throughout this season. 

Aside from his fondness for fake or trick plays, Tomlin took a chance when organizing the Pittsburgh Steelers roster. The head coach recently traded for Preston Smith and Mike Williams, both of whom are 30 or older, and with Williams coming from the Jets, who are currently 3-7. However, trading for them was a risk that paid off, as it was Williams’ touchdown that clinched the Steelers’ Week 10 victory by one point over the Commanders, and Smith was pivotal in locking down the defense. Tomlin also took risks with the roster before the season had even started as well. Russell Wilson was coming off being benched by the Broncos because of his poor performances when he signed with the Steelers. The veteran quarterback is a whopping 35 years old, and though he was injured for the first six weeks, he’s been able to bounce back and contribute to the Steelers’ winning record. 

In addition to revamping the roster this season, Tomlin’s risk strategy also includes his liking towards fake or trick plays to confuse opponents. While these plays usually yield a high reward, there are times when they are executed poorly, contributing to some of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ self-destructive moments on the field. For example, on Sunday against the Commanders, Tomlin called for a fake punt that the Steelers dropped on their own 16-yard line. When questioned about his decision, Tomlin defended the choice, explaining that the team had practiced it for months and would likely be using it again. While the fake punt did not end in success, Tomlin’s strategy of taking risks certainly has, and his ability to effectively do so has contributed to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ record and accomplishments this season.