Steelers Mike Tomlin previews 49ers matchup ‘in eye of the storm’
SANTA CLARA – Here are the highlights of Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin’s media conference call ahead of Sunday’s game against the 49ers at Levi’s Stadium:
What has this week been like to get Mason Rudolph ready, mentally?
“From a mental preparation standpoint, one reason we have a great deal of comfort and he had a great deal of comfort, he’s approached each day as if he’s a starter and has brought that level of urgency to his preparation. … He’s going to be getting the physical reps and and is going to be the starter and is no preparing as if he’s the starter.”
What did you like about Mason to give him the job of Josh (Dobbs)?
“It’s just based on performance. We didn’t give him the job, he earned it. He had a consistent high level of performance that distinguished himself against those he was competing against and really the decision was easy.”
People are writing you off at 0-2, no franchise quarterback, going across country to play a 2-0 team. Does part of you enjoy this adversity as seen in other people’s eyes?
“I don’t care of many people’s eyes and things of that nature, man We are used to living in the eye of the storm in this business at this level. I do enjoy the challenges and adversity that this game presents, so from that standpoint it does create an urgency that’s a good fuel. But in terms of perceptions and what people are saying outside of our organization, it’d be tough for me to care less.”
What are your perceptions of the 49ers?
“First of all they create a great deal of negativity on defense. Man, they’re getting turnovers and scoring points. Boy that makes you a tough, tough outfit to beat. On the other side, they’re running the ball extremely well. They’re not behind the chains. They’re controlling situational football and that makes you a tough unit to beat. Collectively, it’s pretty clear why they’re undefeated at this point.”
What is the early plan for safety Mikah Fitzpatrick and his role Sunday?
“We’re going to base that on how he digests what we do and his ability to execute at a high level. We are going to give him practice reps and let that be our guide as we push through the week.”
What are your early impressions on Nick Bosa?
“Man, he’s been in some good situations, they’ve been in good situations, being up in games and allowing his talent to show. I’ve got a lot of respect for him as a rusher and a lot of respect for them as rushers. They’re not only talented individuals but how they work collectively together, Dee Ford and everyone else.”
What do you think of defensive end Ronald Blair?
“I just like the way they use a large number of people. They have a great rotation and everybody is productive and fresh and playing hard. That is one of the key attributes what they do defensively systematically. We played Seattle a week ago and they run a bunch of defensive linemen at you. The 4-3 teams that generate rush with those guys primarily have to play a lot of people and they need all of them to be productive, and they’re playing great at this point.”
What’s your message for the team this week?
“I’m developing it. If you’re asking what it is at the end of the week, it has a lot to do with what I see during the preparation.”
How is Vance McDonald taking the next step in his career (since getting traded from the 49ers)?
“He’s a top-notch professional, a hard worker, a good player, he’s been a great addition for us and it’s been a good experience for all parties involved.”