LATROBE, PA (93.7 The Fan) – COVID interfered with it for a couple of years, last year washed out by big storms. Steelers try again to get back to the tradition of Friday Night Lights at Latrobe's Memorial Stadium at 7p.
Typically, it's a spirited practice, head coach Mike Tomlin did not have the team in pads on Thursday which could be a precursor to a physical practice Friday night. Often there are 'Backs on Backers' drills, likely a '7-shots' drills and there always seems to be a receiver to watch during one-on-one drills. George Pickens made a big catch over Minkah Fitzpatrick and Cam Sutton last year during the day practice in Latrobe that got a lot of attention.
"We want to make those plays and give the fans what they are looking for," said Steelers receiver Diontae Johnson. "It gets you amped up a little bit and makes you play a little harder."
Johnson says they do want to put on a show, whether that's with physicality or athleticism or sometimes both. He said it also allows the fans to see the new guys on the team and what they can do.
"It got rained out last year," said Steelers quarterback Mitch Trubisky.
"We are definitely missing that. I'm looking forward to it. It's always fun playing on Friday playing under the lights. I think it gives you that high school feel. I know it always takes me back. It's something that means a lot to me."
"I think it will be fun for us and for the fans. We look forward to putting on a show and having lots of interactions with the fans and having a good practice."
There are lots of autographs and selfies and lots of yelling of players names from the stands and along the fence lining the field. The practice also marks the one-week point from the first of three preseason games.
"Huge to be able to have the fans come out," said Steelers TJ Watt. "It's a huge night for the whole city of Latrobe. Obviously, people come from all over for it, so I'm excited to get in front of the fans again."
