Mike Tomlin Frustrated After Steelers’ Collapse in Final Halves of Preseason Loss to Buccaneers, Calls Out Players Individually

The Pittsburgh Steelers dropped their preseason Week 2 matchup to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 14–17, at Acrisure Stadium on August 16, 2025.

Head coach Mike Tomlin spoke candidly in his postgame press conference, emphasizing that while the outcome was disappointing, the preseason is about learning, growth, and evaluation. Tomlin praised his team for controlling the game early but acknowledged the lapses in execution that flipped momentum. “We had a good first half, but we didn’t finish. That’s something we’ll correct on tape and move forward with,” Tomlin stated.

Key Takeaways from Tomlin’s Press Conference

1. Balanced evaluation
Tomlin stressed the importance of not overreacting to preseason results. He acknowledged the positives—such as the starters’ dominance early—and identified key negatives, particularly turnovers and missed assignments, that swung the game late.

2. Young players and depth evaluations

• Beanie Bishop (CB): Tomlin praised the undrafted rookie for his instinct around the ball, breaking up passes and staying active, but noted the need for improved consistency and technique.

Zach Frazier (C): The rookie center earned high marks for steadiness and toughness, holding his own and showing leadership potential.

QB rotation: The Steelers rotated Kyle Allen, John Rhys Plumlee, Mason Rudolph, and Will Howard. While Allen managed the offense effectively and Plumlee showcased athleticism, the group as a whole struggled with drops and missed assignments.

Linebacker depth: Jacoby Windmon and Kyron Johnson both flashed with impactful plays, boosting confidence in the unit’s depth despite injury risks.

3. Turnovers and ball security
Tomlin highlighted turnovers as the turning point, especially an interception in the third quarter that shifted momentum to Tampa Bay. He emphasized the need for the offense to protect the football and the defense to capitalize on takeaway opportunities.

4. Offensive line and special teams
The offensive line showed resilience against a tough Buccaneers front, with rookies like Frazier and Mason McCormick gaining valuable reps. On special teams, there were both bright spots and breakdowns, including a costly coverage miscue. Tomlin noted ongoing adjustments to new kickoff rules.

Though the Steelers fell short, Tomlin underscored that preseason is about evaluation, not results. The first half showed what the starters are capable of, while the second half revealed areas for growth among backups and young talent. With players like Bishop and Frazier earning praise and defensive depth showing promise, Pittsburgh leaves this matchup with plenty to build on ahead of the regular season.