4 obstacles in Steelers way of winning AFC North

Steelers questionable coaching

Mike Tomlin is one of the greatest coaches in the history of the NFL. Keeping the team alive after Ben Roethlisberger’s injury in 2019 was nothing short of impressive. But, even the greats have weaknesses and Tomlins have become apparent to Steelers fans during his tenure. Despite never having a losing season, the Steelers also do not win a lot of playoff games. In fact, under Mike Tomlin, the Steelers have lost three playoff games in a row.

To go along with the playoff losses, the Steelers are infamous for playing down to the level of their opponent. This, unfortunately, resulted in an embarrassing tie with the Detroit Lions in the 2021 regular season, and a horrendous loss to the Cleveland Browns in the 2020 playoffs. I’ll hold my tongue when it comes to the playoff loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2017 playoffs.

Mike Tomlin is a hall of fame coach, but there is a level of frustration among Steelers fans. At some point, never having a losing season, would be a lot better if there was a deep playoff run at the end. I’m not saying Tomlin needs to win Super Bowls, the fans just want a deeper and stronger push in the playoffs.

Winning the AFC North isn’t impossible for the Steelers, but the preparation and focus to get to that point has to start with Mike Tomlin.