How Mike Tomlin used Brian Flores to get back at the Patriots

Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin employed Brian Flores in the offensive game strategy for Week 2’s matchup against the New England Patriots.

It remains to be seen if that move will work out, but it’s a brilliant strategy to employ when you have a former Patriots top assistant on the coaching staff.

Tomlin has Flores at his disposal. Flores, a former top Patriots defensive assistant and after that Miami Dolphins head coach (same division as New England, for those who need a refresher), is very familiar with the system. So, Flores sat in on the Steelers’ offensive meetings to give some pointers when necessary.

Pittsburgh’s offense was putrid in their opening game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Ideally, using Flores would help matters a bit against New England.

Steelers: Will using Brian Flores help against Patriots?

Bill Belichick is notoriously tricky with his defensive schemes, so it’s likely a few things have changed since Flores was familiar with the ins and outs.

However, tips such as those used this week are much of why Tomlin brought Flores in. He’s one of the best assistant coaches in the NFL, and will likely be a head coach again one day.

Flores reportedly had other opportunities this offseason when he was let go by the Dolphins, but chose Pittsburgh instead.

“It’s been great, a lot of fun,” Flores told Mark Kaboly of The Athletic. “There is a lot of conversation and a lot of creative ideas, thoughts. It has been a great experience so far, and I’m excited about those moments when I get to sit in those meetings. I am learning a lot, and it has been a great experience for me. I would like to think that I have been in some good places and around some good coaches. Coach [Mike Tomlin], [defensive coordinator Teryl Austin] take a back seat to none of them.”

Getting back to a position of strength — linebackers — is smart of Flores as he works his way back up the head coaching ladder.