Mike Tomlin says kickoff interference was unintentional

During the fourth quarter of the clash between AFC North rivals on Thanksgiving night, Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin found a little way to get involved in the action. The Steelers had just pulled within six points, whenever Baltimore Ravens wide receiver and kick returner Jacoby Jones almost took the following kickoff back to the house.

While Jones was streaking down the sideline, Tomlin ended up wandering onto the playing field where he got into Jones way and forced Jones to alter his path. By forcing Jones to move on the field, the Steelers coverage team was able to catch him from behind.

Many thought that Tomlin intentionally interfered, which could have resulted in a penalty and touchdown being rewarded, but Tomlin says that he simply lost his placement when watching the return on the jumbotron.

“I always watch the returns on the Jumbotron,” Tomlin told reporters, via Pro Football Talk.  “It provides a better perspective for me.  Obviously, I lost my placement as he broke free.  I started at the last second and saw how close I was to the field of play.

“I do it quite often like everyone else in the National Football League. I was wrong.  I accept responsibility for it.”

There is a chance that the NFL could punish Tomlin for getting involved, by handing down a fine. However, they could also sweep it under the rug if they buy his excuse.

What do you think? Was Tomlin intentionally getting in the way or was he just in the wrong place at the wrong time? Sound off in the comments section below and share your thoughts.