Pittsburgh Review

The Pittsburgh Steelers demonstrated offensive prowess in their recent 44-38 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, amassing 520 yards. Despite this high-scoring game, head coach Mike Tomlin remains wary of relying on shootouts. Known for his defensive focus, Tomlin prefers his team to dominate defensively rather than engage in high-scoring battles.

"I don't know that I'm ever comfortable planning to shoot out," Tomlin stated on Tuesday. He acknowledged the capability of his offense but expressed a preference for minimizing such situations through strong defense.

The Steelers, now holding a 9-3 record, aggressively approached the Bengals (4-8), anticipating challenges from quarterback Joe Burrow and receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith emphasized passing plays, resulting in quarterback Russell Wilson achieving a career-high with 257 yards in the first half alone. The team's strategy led to a halftime lead of 27-21, which extended early in the fourth quarter following a defensive play by Nick Herbig and rookie Payton Wilson.

Despite an early interception returned for a touchdown by Cincinnati's Cam Taylor-Britt, the Steelers maintained their offensive strategy. "I just liked the offense's quick response," Tomlin commented on their resilience.

Looking ahead to their upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns, who recently defeated them in adverse weather conditions, Tomlin recognizes another potential high-scoring match. Cleveland's quarterback Jameis Winston has been productive since taking over as starter.

"It was some explosive playmaking," said Tomlin about Cleveland's recent performance. While uncomfortable with shootouts, he acknowledges that with Wilson at quarterback, the Steelers are equipped to compete offensively.

Wilson is averaging 271 passing yards per game and has contributed significantly to the team's average of 28.7 points per game since becoming a starter.

In terms of injuries, outside linebacker Alex Highsmith is expected to return after missing games due to an ankle injury. In his absence, Nick Herbig has stepped up with notable performances alongside newly acquired Preston Smith.

Tomlin also addressed cornerback Joey Porter's penalties against Cincinnati's physical receiver Higgins. While acknowledging technical areas for improvement, Tomlin praised Porter's competitive mentality: "He's got a serial killer's mentality."

With key players returning and tactical adjustments ongoing, Tomlin prepares for another challenging matchup against Cleveland this week.