By Brandon Wallace
SteelerNation.com
PITTSBURGH, PA - In Tuesday's press conference with head coach Mike Tomlin, you could tell that the vibe was not to dwell on last Sunday night's loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, but to focus on the Oakland Raiders. Still, Tomlin finally elaborated a bit more as far as his thoughts on the second half collapse this past weekend. Watch the clip here:
Video courtesy of Pittsburgh Sports Live
Tomlin further addressed all the injuries that have recently occurred with the team involving Ryan Switzer (concussion), Justin Hunter (shoulder), Anthony Chickillo (ankle), Marcus Gilbert (knee), and James Conner (ankle):
Mike Tomlin: Ryan Switzer in concussion protocol. Optimistic about him
— Ed Bouchette (@EdBouchette) December 4, 2018
Mike Tomlin says it's a "possibility" for Eli Rogers to join the team from IR, but also said he's excited about James Washington to get back in the mix and "take advantage of someone else's misfortune"
— Ed Bouchette (@EdBouchette) December 4, 2018
Mike Tomlin: Anthony Chickillo (ankle) may be limited in practice. Marcus Gilbert (knee) still working his way back.
— Ed Bouchette (@EdBouchette) December 4, 2018
James Conner has an ankle sprain, not a contusion. He is OUT this week, per #Steelers HC Mike Tomlin.
— Aditi Kinkhabwala (@AKinkhabwala) December 4, 2018
With star running-back James Conner officially ruled OUT for Sunday's game against the Raiders, Tomlin explained that the focus will be a running-back by committee "intention" moving forward.
As far as further impressions about the Oakland Raiders, Tomlin also commented about his high praise for Raiders' head coach, Jon Gruden and the rest of the Raiders' coaching staff. See the clip here:
Video courtesy of Pittsburgh Sports Live
Despite the Steelers sitting at an underachieving record of 7-4-1, the Steelers still hold a half game lead over the 2nd place Baltimore Ravens. They'll look to get back on track Sunday night against the Oakland Raiders at 4:25 pm EST.
Mike Tomlin on the AFC North division race: Based on where we are, there's no need for us to look around
— Ed Bouchette (@EdBouchette) December 4, 2018
#SteelerNation
