Play-calling remarks: Pittsburgh Steelers OC Todd Haley denies rift with QB Big Ben – NFL News
Pittsburgh Steelers’ offensive coordinator Todd Haley who was the direct subject of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger’s criticism after last week’s loss to the Dallas Cowboys has attempted to further kill the controversy, saying he did not mind remarks from
Ben because they had stemmed from emotions involved in the game.
Ben criticised Haley’s play-calling judgement soon after coming out of the Cowboys’ game. The player was furious because of the loss and came in open terms to criticise the offensive coach.
Head coach Mike Tomlin met the offence leader soon after those comments and said there was nothing as controversial about his comments and apparently relationship between the player and Todd was excellent.
Big Ben himself came out with an apology to Haley and said he had said those things because of his frustration out. He not only said sorry to Haley, but Mike Tomlin and also owner Art Rooney II.
In spite of their attempts to downplay the situation, onlookers find atmosphere in Pittsburgh regarding the coach and player’s relationship not that conducive, and believe QB Ben still does not feel comfortable working with the offensive coordinator.
Now Haley himself has come out with denial of these suggestions and said he never took the player’s comments that seriously. He went on to clarify that he and Ben were on with good terms.
According to Haley:
"That was an emotional game. Whatever was said can't be taken too much to the heart because that's the way this game is. Guys will get into it in locker rooms, in the building, on the practice field. It's the mindset you get into when you're getting ready
to compete and coach a big game.”
He added:
"There's emotion involved. I wouldn't really pay much attention to anything that's said in an emotional state of mind."
The Steelers are facing the Cincinnati Bengals this weekend with an aim to salvage last chance to claim berth into the playoffs, and it is essential that all the players are comfortable with all officials. Any lingering controversy can prove fatal to their
performance and at the end will cause their ousting from the playoff race.
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