LATROBE, Pa. -- Mike Tomlin has always had an affinity for James Harrison the linebacker. Without Harrison's pick-six in Super Bowl XLIII, who knows, the coach might not have won a Super Bowl.
As for Harrison's attempt at broadcasting, well, that might be a different story.
During an appearance last week on Fox Sports 1's "Undisputed," Harrison sparked controversy when he stated that Bill Belichick was a better coach than Tomlin. Harrison, of course, has played for both. After being released late last season by Tomlin's Steelers, Harrison signed with New England, helping the Patriots advance to the Super Bowl.
"Mike Tomlin's good as a head coach," said Harrison. "He's a player's coach. I think he needs to be a little bit more disciplined.
"The big thing with Belichick is he's very regimented, he's disciplined. Everyone is going to be on the same page. It's not going to be anything as far as someone doing their own thing."
Needless to say, Harrison's remarks were about as well received by the Steelers as they were when their all-time leading sack artist signed with Belichick and the Patriots last December.
"Coach Tomlin is the best," said center Maurkice Pouncey, one of Harrison's most vocal critics last year. "He’s got a Super Bowl. He runs the team the right way. After you retire, everyone has a lot to say."
Tomlin, who is beginning his 12th season, didn't have a lot to say, actually.
"I don't think a lot about it, to be quite honest with you," he said. "(Harrison) has his opinion and he's entitled to it. He doesn't play for us right now. Man, I'm focused on 2018. That's soap opera stuff. I'll let you (media) play that game."