Just as players use the first live game action of the season to shake the rust off, so should the coaches. Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin missed a prime opportunity to go through the challenge process in the first half.
On the Steelers’ third offensive drive of the game, Justin Fields threw a deep-ball pass slightly behind wide receiver Van Jefferson. Still, Jefferson made the 20-yard catch and, as shown on instant replay, got both feet in bounds. But the referees saw it otherwise.
Tomlin looked indecisive on the sideline and opted not to take action. The Steelers gained seven total yards on the five plays that followed, forcing their third punt in as many drives.
In his 17-year career, Tomlin has a 43 percent success rate on challenges, with 40 calls overturned in 90 attempts.
It’s the preseason; there’s nothing to lose. Throw the flag.
