Mike Tomlin Lauds Steelers’ Resiliency: ‘They Cut Their Eyelids Off’

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin used one of his signature catchphrases to capture the resiliency his team showed in its 24-17 come-from-behind victory over the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday.

It might also be his most graphic.

Tomlin has frequently told his players over the years not to blink, and then furthered that instruction with a graphic admonishment, telling them that if they want to blink, they should cut their eyelids off.

“I just love the fight in this group,” Tomlin said. “They don’t blink. They cut their eyelids off. They go at it. Like I told them, it’s not a compliment. It’s required. I’m just acknowledging it. We’d better be prepared to fight every time we step into a stadium, because that’s what the National Football League is about.”

Thankfully, the players appreciate Tomlin’s skill in delivering a metaphor for what it is. No eyelids were left on the floor of the visitor’s locker room at SoFi Stadium.

Tomlin also gave credit to the Steelers’ fanbase, which once again made so much noise in an opposing venue that they forced the home team to operate with a silent count.

“We appreciate the support we get from Steelers Nation,” he said. “We do not take it for granted. But at the same time, man, we love to entertain them. They were in the building today, man, and we’re thankful for that.” Steelers fans also made a big impact in the team’s Week 3 win on the road against the Las Vegas Raiders and showed up in force in Week 4, despite the team’s blowout loss to the Houston Texans.

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