The Pittsburgh Steelers‘ postseason struggles continued Saturday night as the Baltimore Ravens delivered a crushing 28-14 defeat in the AFC Wild Card round. The loss has intensified fans’ demands for the dismissal of longtime head coach Mike Tomlin, whose leadership is now under severe scrutiny.
The Ravens overwhelmed the Steelers with a relentless ground game, racking up 299 rushing yards compared to Pittsburgh’s meager 29. This marked the most rushing yards the Steelers have ever allowed in a playoff game, surpassing a 51-year-old record. Star running back Derrick Henry spearheaded Baltimore’s offensive onslaught with 186 yards and two touchdowns, while quarterback Lamar Jackson added 81 rushing yards and threw for 175 yards with two touchdowns.
Mike Tomlin storms out of press conference after Steelers lose to Bills
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Pittsburgh’s season ends in collapse
The Steelers entered the postseason on a five-game losing streak, with two of those losses coming against the Ravens. This latest defeat extended their playoff losing streak to six games, a skid that dates back to the 2016 season. Pittsburgh’s defense, typically their stronghold, appeared overwhelmed and exhausted after spending most of the first half on the field.
Baltimore’s offense delivered long, punishing drives, including three touchdown series of 90+ yards in the first half alone. Jackson’s precision passing and mobility kept the Steelers‘ defense guessing, while Henry’s power running exploited Pittsburgh’s weaknesses up front.
Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson showed flashes of brilliance, throwing two touchdown passes to Van Jefferson and George Pickens, but the offense struggled to sustain drives against Baltimore’s aggressive defense.
Fans demand change at the top
Steelers fans have been vocal about their frustration, with many taking to social media to demand Tomlin’s removal. Despite his impressive career record and a Super Bowl title, critics argue that Tomlin has failed to adapt to modern NFL strategies, leaving Pittsburgh lagging behind its competition.
Supporters of a coaching change believe the team needs fresh leadership to revitalize its culture and address persistent issues on both sides of the ball. Others defend Tomlin, citing his stability and ability to lead during challenging times.
As the Ravens advance to the divisional round, the Steelers are left to face a long offseason of reflection. Whether the organization will make significant changes, including at the head coach position, remains to be seen. For now, the pressure on Tomlin is higher than ever as fans yearn for a return to the team’s former glory.
