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Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger wanted to make sure to praise Steelers coach Mike Tomlin for playing aggressively in the fourth quarter of the Steelers' win over Detroit in Week 11.
After all, praise for behavior reinforces that behavior.
Roethlisberger, speaking on his show with Vinny & Cook on 93.7 The Fan, spoke of the conversation Roethlisberger, Tomlin and offensive coordinator Todd Haley had.
Writes Joe Starkey: "Mike T came right up to me on the sideline, took his headset off and said, 'Ben, we get this ball back, I’m not sitting on this. We’re stayin in the no-huddle. We’re not playing not to lose. We’re staying in this mode. He grabbed Coach Haley and said the same thing right in front of me. He was adamant. He said, 'I'm not playing not to lose the game.' I give coach a lot of credit for that situation."
Can't help but wonder if the story was told as something Roethlisberger isn't used to happening, or Ben's own aggressive style enjoys the re-tell just to relish in the set-up of his 20-yard touchdown pass to Jerricho Cotchery that sealed the win.
Either way, the aggressive call helped the Steelers pull off the upset win. But aggressive playcalling isn't always recommended. Just ask Lions coach Jim Schwartz.
More from Behind the Steel Curtain:
- Steelers tame Lions: News and updates after 37-27 win over Detroit
- Injury Report: Steelers may get Woodley, Keisel and Foster back for Week 12
- Matt Spaeth to be evaluated this week
- Ray Graham working out for Steelers
- BTSC Week 12 Power Rankings
- A rare Double Renegade leads to two second-half turnovers
- It's not about the huddle, offensive collaboration is key