Steelers/NFL
Mike Tomlin Week 1 Presser Notes
*The Pittsburgh Steelers have dominated the Steelers-Ravens rivalry of late but Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said today he has a more uneasy feeling about Sunday’s matchup with the Baltimore Ravens than he usually does due to the Ravens doing more than just tweaking their roster following the lockout. While some of the core is the same, the supporting cast has drastically changed. Tomlin says the Steelers have a lot of new things to get familiar with, in regards to the Ravens.
*Tomlin on the matchup: “The root of the matter is we have two football teams with the same intention, to get a step in front of the AFC North. Two trains on a track. We’ll see you Sunday.”
*Tomlin had high praise for Ravens 1st round pick CB Jimmy Smith. Tomlin called Smith a top pedigree talent and indicates the Ravens were fortunate to land Smith in the late first round. Smith is expected to start at corner.
*The only injury concern for the Steelers is rookie linebacker Chris Carter. Carter likely would not be active, even if he was healthy for Sunday.
*Ike Taylor is having his pin removed today from his broken thumb. Tomlin has no concerns regarding Taylor’s playing status and the same for Bryant McFadden.
*Tomlin indicated that William Gay will play inside in his normal nickle back role. Tomlin praised Gay’s awareness and safety like qualities to play inside. Indications are Keenan Lewis will be the primary backup to Ike Taylor or Bryant McFadden on the outside.
*Tomlin has no concerns about James Harrison. “We expect James Harrison like play, ” Tomlin said. Tomlin would not committ to whether Jason Worilds or Lawrence Timmons would be the primary backup to Harrison. Tomlin though isn’t expecting Harrison to come off the field much. “Jason Worilds has improved quite a bit, ” Tomlin said. “Lawrence Timmons is an option but I expect James to be James.”
Tomlin on constant talk of the Steelers defense getting old: “Keep talking about how old they are. That makes my job easier”.
*Emmanuel Sanders and Jerricho Cotchery are ready to for this week.
AUDIO: Tomlin Week 1 Presser
