Pittsburgh Review

In a recent interview, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin shared insights into the intense rivalry between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens. Tomlin, who has been with the Steelers for 18 years, emphasized the importance of educating new players about the rich history of this divisional rivalry. "There are intimacies in these divisional relationships," he noted, highlighting that the rivalry's roots trace back to when the Ravens were originally the Cleveland Browns.

Tomlin described both teams as having similar goals and organizational stability, noting key figures like Ozzie Newsome and Kevin Colbert. He remarked on the inevitable intensity when they meet: "When we're both right, we usually see each other three times a year."

Regarding Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, whom Tomlin respectfully referred to as "Mr. Jackson," he highlighted Jackson's unique abilities outside the pocket. "He's got 400-plus yards passing outside the pocket... His quarterback rating is 123 when he's outside the pocket," Tomlin stated.

Tomlin discussed defensive strategies against Jackson's designed runs and how they adapt their approach at the mesh point based on different defensive calls. He also recalled a dinner with Jackson before his Pro Day at Louisville, praising his rapport with teammates and leadership qualities.

The conversation turned to other key players like Derrick Henry and Patrick Ricard, whom Tomlin dubbed "the risk reduction team" for their roles in minimizing risks for the Ravens. On tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Lively, Tomlin observed their varying contributions throughout the season but stressed Andrews' connection with Jackson as particularly significant.

Patrick Queen's transition from Raven to Steeler was another topic of discussion. Queen expressed motivation to prove himself against his former team after not being offered a contract extension by Baltimore.

Tomlin acknowledged that facing Baltimore's offense would be a major test for Pittsburgh's defense but noted it wouldn't define them if they continued progressing through challenges during the season.

He also reflected on his relationship with Ravens coach John Harbaugh: "We're tied to each other for life... just because of this rivalry." Despite competitive tension, there's mutual respect rooted in shared experiences over many years.

On defense strategies against key Raven Kyle Hamilton, Tomlin praised Hamilton’s versatility: “He's best down around line scrimmage… He's position flexible.” Comparing him to hybrid players like Isaiah Simmons or George Iloka further underscored Hamilton’s unique skill set within NFL ranks today.