Monday, November 29, 1999Bettis: Steelers too proud to reach Bengal-like level
BY TOM GROESCHEN
The Cincinnati EnquirerPITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh fans and media are all over the Steelers, three straight losses include home defeats to the Bengals and expansion Cleveland — two 2-10 teams.
Quarterback Kordell Stewart was booed fiercely Sunday, and the fans let the team have it afterward.
The Bengals have heard their share of boos at home this season, but they were stunned by the Steeler fans: “They're a little more intense.” said linebacker Brian Simmons. Linebacker Takeo Spikes said, “Mark this down in black and white. Our place is not that bad.”
Running back Jerome Bettis was asked by someone, “Is this team in danger of falling down to the level of Cincinnati and Cleveland?”
Said Bettis, “I don't think so, because we have a strong commitment to win and get it done. Our coaching staff and organization won't allow it, and the players in this locker room have more pride to let it go like that.”
Coach Bill Cowher said Stewart will remain on the bench and Mike Tomczak will start. Stewart could return to his Slash role, and may get some time again at wide receiver.
“We didn't get it done today,” Cowher said. “We didn't make plays today. I'm not going to sit here and philosophize with you about what it is.”
The players are still giving the effort, Cowher said, but the execution is lacking.
“It's disappointing. It's frustrating,” he said. “But all you can do is keep working at it.”
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