I won't disagree with those columnist though some of them (Madden in particular) has been writing about Tomlin's adequacies for a while. I'm glad the others have finally seen the light. Until the beat reporters start acting less like PR for the Steelers and asking the tough questions--basically being like every other city's beat reporters.
In some ways, Tomlin's Super Bowl win in his 2nd year may be the worst thing to happen because it locked him in to pseudo-lifetime contract with the Rooneys. Him never having a losing season and the national media harping on that every chance further insulates Tomlin from any real scrutiny. Be honest--do you think the Rooneys really want the national criticism for firing a head coach who's never had a losing season and by the way, got his interview opportunity based on a rule named after the owner?
As far as the similarities between Franklin and Tomlin, I can see some--bad game day coach, never seems to get his team up for the big-time opponent, his guys love him, and talks a good game. But there are clear differences between CFB and NFL when it comes to what is considered a good/bad season. I think with the 12-team playoff, those differences are reduced. But what I find odd is that the national media takes opposite approaches to each of them:
- Franklin - He's guaranteed to win 8-9-10 games but horrible vs Mich and OSU. Can't win the big game.
- Tomlin - Look at what he does with nothing. He never lost more than 8 games. (crickets about the post season)