Although the 2017 NFL season is officially nearing its end, the Pittsburgh Steelers are still not over their disappointing loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC Divisional Game. Needless to say, running back Le'Veon Bell is among those who still can not come to grips with their defeat.
The Steelers received plenty of criticism for seemingly overlooking the Jaguars en route to a potential rematch with the New England Patriots. Bell essentially confirmed that notion during an appearance on CBS Sports Radio with Tiki and Tierney
Article Continues Below“I did [have energy], but you can’t control everybody,” Bell said. “I did. I wanted that game badly. Certain guys out there was not ready to play football. I mean, don’t get me wrong, guys woke up in the second half, but it’s kind of too late.”
Bell's comments may be perceived as a slight to his teammates. Unfortunately, there is plenty of truth to the matter after the Steelers were unable to redeem themselves against a Jaguars team that ultimately handed them their two most disappointing losses of the season.
Furthermore, Bell's words certainly carry plenty of weight considering his spectacular performance against the formidable Jaguars defense after finishing with a combined 155 yards and two touchdowns. All the more reason to give the three-time Pro Bowler his money this offseason.
Another interesting dynamic to his comments is the fact that he seemingly shifted all the blame to the players rather than the coaches. Head coach Mike Tomlin has taken the brunt of the criticisms for another underwhelming end to the season. However, Bell has largely stuck to the same script that fellow teammates have expressed since the loss as well.