Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett has endured his share of struggles this season, but he also has displayed a habit of redeeming himself in crunch time.
After Thursday night’s 20–16 win over the Titans, a statistic regarding Pickett’s average performance at different points of games became a talking point. Through eight games, Pickett’s passer rating is 75.3 over the first three quarters, per Steelers Depot’s Alex Kozora. But as for the fourth quarter, Pickett has earned a 108.2 passer rating.
A reporter asked coach Mike Tomlin about that sharp contrast during Tuesday’s press conference, and the longtime Pittsburgh coach cleverly flipped the narrative to support for his quarterback.
“Pickett’s quarterback rating is 75 in the first three quarters. Is there something that’s particularly not happening for him?” the reporter asked.
“What is his rating in the fourth quarter?” Tomlin interrupted, prompting the reporter to answer 108. “Well, just ask it from that perspective. He’s awesome in the fourth quarter. Man, he rises up in those moments. He wants to be the reason why we’re successful. He prepares his tail off. In some instances when people run from challenges, he runs to challenges. So, that’s why his performance is so good in the fourth. Those other quarters we’ll work on.”
#Steelers HC Mike Tomlin made sure to turn the tables when asked about Kenny Pickett's QB rating in quarters 1-3.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 7, 2023
"What is his rating in the 4th quarter...? He's AWESOME in the 4th quarter."
Tomlin standing up for his QB...pic.twitter.com/SF07L8aYT7
Despite Pickett’s inconsistency, the Steelers hold a 5–3 record heading into Week 10. The quarterback has completed 61.3% of his pass attempts for 1,490 yards with six touchdown passes and four interceptions.
The Steelers will play host to the Packers (3-5) at 1 p.m. ET Sunday at Acrisure Stadium.
