The Pittsburgh Steelers are under fire from their passionate fanbase following a disappointing Week 18 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.

The game, which many fans hoped would be a turning point for the team, instead highlighted ongoing struggles, prompting loud calls for head coach Mike Tomlin to be removed from his position.

The Steelers’ 2024 season has been a rollercoaster, filled with inconsistent performances on both sides of the ball. While Tomlin has maintained his impressive streak of non-losing seasons, the fanbase’s patience appears to be wearing thin as the team’s playoff hopes dwindle. The Week 18 loss to a Bengals team missing key players added fuel to the fire, as fans took to social media to voice their frustration.

Many fans argue that Tomlin’s tenure, which began in 2007, has grown stale. While he led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2008 and another appearance in 2010, the Steelers have struggled to find postseason success in recent years. Critics point to questionable play-calling, inconsistent game management, and a perceived lack of adjustments as reasons for the team’s underperformance.

“It’s time for a change. Tomlin has done a lot for this team, but we need new leadership to take us to the next level,” one fan tweeted. Another echoed similar sentiments: “The Steelers are too talented to be this mediocre. The front office needs to make a tough decision.”

However, not all fans are on board with the calls for Tomlin’s dismissal. Many point to his track record of stability and leadership, emphasizing that the team’s issues go beyond coaching. The lack of a consistent offensive identity, questions at quarterback, and injuries to key players have all contributed to the Steelers’ struggles this season.

“Firing Tomlin isn’t the answer. The problems run deeper than coaching. We need better execution and roster improvements,” one fan commented in a discussion thread.

Despite the controversy, Tomlin has remained steadfast in his approach, emphasizing accountability and a focus on finishing the season strong. “We’re not going to point fingers or make excuses. Our job is to perform, and that’s what we’re going to focus on,” Tomlin said in his post-game press conference.

As the Steelers head into the offseason, the pressure on Tomlin and the front office to address the team’s shortcomings will only intensify. Whether the organization decides to part ways with one of its most successful coaches or continue to trust in Tomlin’s leadership remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Steelers fans expect results.