NFL: Kansas City Chiefs at Pittsburgh Steelers (image credit: IMAGN)
Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin's blunt assessment reflects his team's desperate need for redemption. A season that showed promise with a 7-1 midseason surge has crumbled under losses to the Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs.
Tomlin, entering his 17th season with Pittsburgh, faces mounting pressure. His defense, once the team's backbone, has surrendered an alarming 402 yards per game during their three-game slide. Their offense under Russell Wilson hasn't topped 20 points in four straight games.
During Monday's press conference, Tomlin addressed the media ahead of Saturday's crucial Week 18 matchup. The Steelers face a surging Cincinnati Bengals team that could derail their postseason positioning.
"We have to get the stench of our last few performances off of us," Tomlin said.
