Why Falcons' Arthur Smith Holds Steelers' Mike Tomlin in 'Highest Regard'
Atlanta Falcons coach Arthur Smith is wrapping up his third training camp as a head coach, and while he isn't a rookie anymore, he's definitely on the lower end of the spectrum when it comes to experience.
Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is on the other side of the table with 17 training camps under his belt.
When the two teams face off in the preseason finale Thursday, it will ultimately come down to the players to make the plays, but Tomlin's advice to Smith in the past could be part of how the Falcons prepare for the game.
“I try to pick his brain a little bit at the league meetings," Smith said. "I think I’ve been fortunate. There have been a lot of older coaches that have been great when I’ve had questions, when I’ve reached out by phone or text, or when you’re at some of those league events. And I appreciate those guys. They try to pass some of the wisdom down if you go look for it. We know how competitive this league is, but Mike Tomlin is one of the guys I hold in the highest regard."
Outside of Bill Belichick with the New England Patriots, Tomlin is the longest-tenured coach in the league. That's a spot Smith hopes to be in someday with the Falcons, so it's a wise decision to heed advice from one of the best at his own profession.
The Steelers and Falcons are set to kickoff Thursday at 7:30 p.m. inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
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