Mike Tomlin Praises New Steelers Safety Duo of Ramsey and Dugger as Key to Defensive Progress
The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to limit Joe Flacco and the Cincinnati Bengals’ offense as they look to strengthen their position atop the AFC North Division in Week 11. In their last meeting in Week 7, Cincinnati’s receiving duo of Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins combined for 22 receptions, 257 yards, and two touchdowns against Pittsburgh’s secondary.
Head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the team’s defensive progress on Tuesday with particular emphasis on recent changes in the secondary. Despite dealing with ongoing injury concerns, Tomlin expressed confidence in the new safety pairing that has helped limit explosive plays in recent weeks.
The Steelers paired Ramsey with Dugger two weeks ago following a trade that brought Dugger from New England. Chuck Clark was sidelined by illness while Jabrill Peppers dealt with a quad injury, forcing Ramsey into a full-time safety role.
The three-time All-Pro cornerback has adapted to the position and delivered improved results compared to Pittsburgh’s previous rotation. His performance helped solidify the decision to release Juan Thornhill earlier this week.
When Darius Slay left Sunday’s loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, Ramsey remained at safety while James Pierre moved outside to cover the cornerback position. Slay is currently in concussion protocol, with his availability for the Bengals game uncertain.
Pittsburgh appears comfortable relying on its current secondary group even as Peppers returns to practice. The team added Asante Samuel Jr. to the practice squad on Tuesday for additional depth.
Pierre has earned Tomlin’s trust through steady play that has allowed the coaching staff to keep Ramsey at safety rather than moving him back to his natural cornerback position.
THE ENTIRE NFL WORLD ERUPTS: Erin Andrews Leaves Studio Speechless After Declaring “Baker Mayfield Is This Nation’s New Quarterback”
The NFL world has erupted in chaos following one of the boldest statements ever made on live television. During a recent post-game discussion, veteran sportscaster Erin Andrews left the entire studio speechless when she looked straight into the camera and asked,
“Is it time for America to move on from Patrick Mahomes?”
Moments later, she doubled down by calling Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield “this nation’s new quarterback,” a comment that instantly set social media ablaze and sent shockwaves through the football community. What began as a routine post-game segment quickly escalated into one of the most polarizing debates in recent NFL memory.
“It wasn’t meant to disrespect Mahomes,” Andrews later clarified, “but it’s time we talk about what’s really happening on the field. The league is changing, and Baker Mayfield is part of that change.”
The statement came after a disappointing performance by Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in their loss to the Buccaneers. Analysts had already been questioning whether the Chiefs’ dynasty was beginning to crack, but Andrews’ comment poured gasoline on the fire. Within minutes, hashtags like
Supporters of Mahomes were quick to defend him, highlighting his two Super Bowl victories and record-breaking achievements. “You don’t just move on from the best player in football,” one fan wrote. Others, however, agreed with Andrews, arguing that Mahomes’ recent struggles show he’s no longer untouchable.
“Baker Mayfield is fearless, efficient, and plays with that chip on his shoulder every single snap,” Andrews said later in the broadcast. “This isn’t about disrespect — it’s about recognizing who’s leading the new generation.”
The controversy didn’t end there. Several analysts on the panel reportedly tried to steer the conversation away, but the clip had already gone viral. Sports talk shows replayed the moment repeatedly, with some calling it
Former players also weighed in. Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe tweeted, “Respect to Erin, but you don’t replace greatness just because someone’s having a rough month. Mahomes is still HIM.” Meanwhile, retired quarterback
The debate has since evolved beyond football performance and into a cultural discussion about legacy, hype, and the media’s role in shaping public perception. Some critics accused Andrews of intentionally sparking controversy to drive ratings, while others praised her for “saying what everyone else was thinking.”
Inside NFL circles, the reaction was reportedly mixed. Sources close to the Chiefs said Mahomes was “aware” of the comment but refused to engage publicly, focusing instead on preparing for next week’s matchup. The
Baker Mayfield himself responded humbly when asked about the viral moment during a post-practice interview:
“I appreciate the compliment,” Mayfield said. “But I’m not here to replace anyone. Patrick Mahomes is one of the best to ever do it. I’m just focused on leading my team and winning football games.”
Despite his modesty, the internet has already dubbed this debate the “Quarterback Crown War.” Fans and analysts are now framing every upcoming Chiefs-Buccaneers matchup as a symbolic clash between the old guard and the new face of the league.
As of now, neither ESPN nor Fox Sports has issued an official statement regarding Andrews’ comments. Still, the moment has cemented itself as one of the most unforgettable live-television exchanges in recent NFL history. Whether you view it as bold truth-telling or unnecessary provocation,
With the NFL season heating up and the Chiefs under growing pressure, all eyes are now on Patrick Mahomes. Can he silence the critics and remind the world why he’s considered the face of modern football? Or has Erin Andrews’ declaration marked the beginning of a new chapter in NFL history — one where Baker Mayfield becomes the symbol of a changing era?
Whatever the answer, one thing is certain: Erin Andrews has set the football world on fire, and this debate isn’t cooling down anytime soon.
