"I'm not going to allow your words to be my words": Mike Tomlin fires back at media over Aaron Rodgers criticism

A couple of weeks after blaming Aaron Rodgers for the loss to the Green Bay Packers, Mike Tomlin made it clear he has no concerns about his quarterback's ability to play at a high level and help the team rack up more wins. The LA Chargers dominated the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night, producing Rodgers’ worst performance with the AFC North team.

The four-time NFL MVP went 16 of 31 for 161 yards and one touchdown against two interceptions. The Chargers won 25-10, giving the Steelers their third loss in the last five games. In the wake of the game, Tomlin shared his thoughts on Rodgers' recent performances, making it clear he has no worries about the 41-year-old QB's ability to deliver.

"Sunday night was what it was," Tomlin said Tuesday. "But I have no long-term reservations about his ability to play the position and play the position at a high level for us."

"I'm not going to chalk it up to an off night, but there are no long-term concerns," he said about A-Rod's performances.

When asked if the player's struggles were the result of Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, Tomlin hit back with a strong response.

"I'm just not going to allow your words to be my words, that's all," the coach said.

The Steelers dropped to 5-4 after this game. The Baltimore Ravens (4-5) are heating up at the right time and could pull off another late comeback to snatch the division title down the stretch.

Aaron Rodgers takes accountability for Steelers' Week 10 loss

Aaron Rodgers also had some thoughts on Sunday’s loss, breaking down what didn’t work for his team and noting that multiple factors were involved.

"A lot of stuff wasn't working," Rodgers said Sunday. "We were bad on third down. I was just a little bit off. ... I missed, obviously, some throws, for sure. And then we weren't getting guys open and just put it all together times the guys were open. I missed some throws I usually make."

The Steelers will clash with the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, hoping to get revenge for their Week 7 loss. That could be a turning point for Rodgers and Co. or a confirmation that the season could turn really dark.