Steelers OC Todd Haley Not Worried About Ben Roethlisberger’s Criticism, Attributes It To ‘Emotional Game’
Todd Haley doesn’t seem like the kind of man who worries about what other people, including his players, think. This can be both good and bad. In the case of when it’s him going against a multiple Super Bowl winning quarterback, well, that’s probably not one of those times where it’s smart to keep a firm stance. From the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:
Steelers offensive coordinator Todd Haley said after practice today that he quickly dismissed what Ben Roethlisberger said after the Dallas game because of his quarterback’s emotional state. “That was an emotional game,” Haley said. “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. There’s emotion involved. I wouldn’t really pay much attention to anything that’s said in an emotional state of mind.” Roethlisberger apologized to Haley and head coach Mike Tomlin for some of his comments in the aftermath of the 27-24 overtime loss to the Cowboys. Roethlisberger questioned the use of tight end Heath Miller in the second half and some of the play-calling. Haley, who had his share of run-ins with star players as offensive coordinator for the Arizona Cardinals, said sometimes confrontation between players and coaches can be a good thing.
