Pittsburgh Review

During a recent interview, a series of questions were posed to Coach Mike Tomlin regarding various aspects of football strategy and team management. Addressing weather delays during games, Tomlin emphasized the importance of focusing on how players re-enter the game after a delay. He explained that "a lot of strategic things" are done with the strength, nutrition, and training staff to prepare players for action without exhausting them.

Tomlin confirmed that food is always available in the locker room, noting it as "a regular component of our everyday existence in 2024." Discussing Russell Wilson's performance in practice, he expressed satisfaction with Wilson's health and movement while highlighting the need for building rapport with receivers.

Regarding defensive play against Dallas' Jalen Tolbert, Tomlin clarified that defenders are allowed one continuous contact within five yards of scrimmage. On addressing player effort issues, he stated there are levels to handling such situations, which can be addressed individually or within groups depending on frequency and severity.

Tomlin discussed offensive play-calling strategies and indicated that familiarity with a play concept influences whether it needs to be practiced before being used in a game. He noted that sometimes plays work due to historical success rather than recent practice performance.

When asked about his involvement in trade decisions alongside General Manager Omar Khan, Tomlin described their collaboration as "organic and continual," emphasizing ongoing discussions about player acquisitions as part of daily operations.

Tomlin also commented on Raiders Coach Antonio Pierce's decision to start Aidan O'Connell at quarterback over Gardner Minshew. He acknowledged O'Connell's strengths as a rhythm thrower who had positive experiences under Pierce last year.

Discussing rookie tight end Brock Bowers from Georgia leading the Raiders in receiving yards, Tomlin praised Bowers' abilities seen during college scouting visits. Finally, when explaining field goal blocking techniques in the NFL, he stressed technique and opportunity as key factors for successful blocks.