Mike Tomlin: deciphering the Pittsburgh Steelers coach’s (many) slogans.
“And for the first time — at least in recent memory — he debuted a new one as he described the difference in his team from the first half to the second in the aftermath of the Steelers’ 28-24 comeback victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.“
The following written content by Brooke Pryor
PITTSBURGH — In more than a decade as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ coach, Mike Tomlin’s index of signature sayings has grown every season.
And for the first time — at least in recent memory — he debuted a new one as he described the difference in his team from the first half to the second in the aftermath of the Steelers’ 28-24 comeback victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.
“It’s a fine line between drinking wine and squashing grapes, as we say in this business,” Tomlin said, not a laugh or hint of sarcasm in his voice.
Wait, what? Who says that in this business?
Only one man in the NFL utters phrases like that, and he’s been the head coach of the Steelers for the past 14 seasons. In using catchphrases, slogans and mantras, Tomlin, 48, effectively communicates with his players and the media members who cover his team. The phrasing is different from the locker room to the news conferences, but Tomlin’s approach is consistent.
“A lot of the message is similar,” former Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel said. “I think when he is thinking of ways to motivate the team and how he’s going to do it, and the process of which he’s going to say things, because let’s be honest, in this business, it is fan-driven, and they want to hear content from their coach. They want to hear content from their players. They want to hear reactions.
“He understands that that is all part of this great game. And so he’s found a way to get his voice out there, not only to the fans and to the public, or even the ownership, but also to his players. And he’s very smart about it. He spends time on it. The guy loves football, like deep down in his soul.”
In Tomlin, tight end Eric Ebron found something of a kindred spirit. Hard as it might be to believe given their differences in personality and approach with reporters, the fun-loving, candid Ebron instantly connected with the all-business coach.
And it’s all thanks to Tomlin’s mantras. Read more from ESPN
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