The NFL is a game of strategy, and sometimes, that means a little bit of gamesmanship. When the Cleveland Browns traded quarterback Joe Flacco, it caused quite a stir, especially among division rivals. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin's comments on the trade caught the attention of many, including Flacco himself. But what was really going on behind the scenes?
On Monday, Coach Tomlin seemed to express surprise at the Browns' decision. However, when asked about Tomlin's remarks, Flacco offered a different perspective. He suggested that Tomlin might have been "playing the game a little bit," perhaps trying to gain a strategic advantage.
And this is where it gets interesting. It's not just about the trade itself. Tomlin likely would have preferred to face Jake Browning, rather than Flacco. Last year, Tomlin even instructed his players to keep Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson healthy, because he preferred facing Richardson over Flacco. But when Richardson was injured and Flacco stepped in, Flacco led the Colts to a victory over Pittsburgh, with a score of 27-24.
Their rivalry stretches all the way back to 2008. Now, whether they like it or not, Tomlin and the Steelers will face Flacco again on Thursday night. For the 4-1 Steelers, a win against Browning would be easier to achieve in order to reach a 5-1 record.
But here's where it gets controversial... Is Tomlin's comment just a friendly jab, or a calculated move to influence the game? Did he really prefer facing Richardson, or was that just a strategic play? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
