Steelers' Mike Tomlin Hits The Media With Direct Criticism Of Russell Wilson

The Pittsburgh Steelers secured an ugly victory over their biggest rival on Sunday. They moved to 8-2 after beating the Baltimore Ravens by a score of 18-16 to take a commanding lead in the AFC North. This win was critical for Pittsburgh as the team continues to take on this gauntlet of a schedule in the second half of the season. This extends Pittsburgh's winning streak to five games, including four straight victories since Russell Wilson took over as the starting quarterback.

Wilson was on fire during his first three starts with the Steelers. In Week 10 against the Washington Commanders, he was a little off, but he still threw for three touchdowns. Against the Ravens however, the quarterback had a clear regression. Pittsburgh still found a way to win, but the team is going to need better play out of Wilson as the season moves along. Wilson threw his second interception of the season against Baltimore when he was looking for Darnell Washington in the end zone. Head Coach Mike Tomlin was asked about the play during his press conference on Monday.

"I just wish Russ hadn't of thrown it," Tomlin said.

This play came with just over nine minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. Pittsburgh had a five-point lead, and it was third down and Wilson was trying to make a play to put points on the board. It probably would have been smart to just throw it away so Pittsburgh could at least get a field goal and take an eight-point lead, but Wilson tried to force a pass, which ended up being picked off by Marlon Humphrey.

Although the ball was picked off, it seemed like Washington had a good chance to come down with the ball for a score. The tight end didn't even jump to try and make a play on the ball, even though it seemed catchable. At the very least, Washington could have attempted to knock the ball away from the defense. Washington is 6'7" and the ball was thrown high, and it seemed like a good opportunity for a touchdown. Tomlin clearly didn't agree and chose to blame his quarterback, rather than the second-year tight end.