**Steelers Legend Ben Roethlisberger Questions Mike Tomlin’s Future**
Former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has raised the possibility of the team parting ways with head coach Mike Tomlin after 19 seasons. Tomlin, who holds the title of the NFL’s longest-tenured head coach, faced criticism from fans during the Steelers’ recent 26-7 defeat to the Buffalo Bills, with many calling for his dismissal. Roethlisberger, who played under Tomlin for 15 of his 18 seasons, echoed the sentiments of the fans, suggesting it might be time for a change.
In a recent episode of his podcast “Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger,” he stated, “Maybe it’s a clean-house time. Maybe it’s time.” While Roethlisberger expressed his admiration for Tomlin, he also indicated that a fresh start could be beneficial for both the coach and the team. He speculated that Tomlin could excel as the head coach at Penn State, where he could leverage his recruiting skills to potentially win national championships.
The Steelers have yet to appoint a full-time head coach since James Franklin’s departure in October, adding to the speculation surrounding Tomlin’s future. Roethlisberger is not alone in his views; former linebacker James Harrison has also suggested that changes are necessary. On his podcast “Deebo and Joe,” Harrison remarked, “I have never been a person that thought Coach Tomlin was a great coach,” emphasizing that a great coach maximizes player potential, which he feels is not happening currently.
Despite the criticism, Tomlin has maintained a strong record, never finishing a season with a losing record. His overall coaching record stands at 189 wins, 113 losses, and 2 ties over 304 games. The Steelers currently sit at 6-6, tied for first place in the AFC North with the Baltimore Ravens, but their recent performance has raised concerns. After a promising 4-1 start, the team has lost five of its last seven games, diminishing their playoff prospects.
The Steelers had a brief lead against the Bills but faltered in the second half, with a critical turnover leading to a touchdown for Buffalo. As the team prepares for a crucial matchup against the Ravens, the pressure on Tomlin’s position continues to mount.
**FAQ**
**Q: What is Ben Roethlisberger’s opinion on Mike Tomlin’s coaching?**
A: Ben Roethlisberger has suggested that it may be time for the Steelers to consider a change in head coach, indicating that a fresh start could be beneficial for Tomlin.
