Mike Tomlin ready for Friday Night Lights to return to Steelers practice routine

After a two-year absence, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice billed as Friday Night Lights returns to Latrobe’s Memorial Stadium.

Coach Mike Tomlin is looking forward to introducing his team’s younger players to the experience.

The event is scheduled to start at 7 p.m., and 15,000 fans are expected to attend.

“I love it,” Tomlin said Thursday. “It’s a yellow bus ride. It’s nostalgic for the players. It’s a cool way to stay connected to the local fans. The proximity of the fans makes it a cool and unique experience. It’s just awesome. If you are a football lover, you love Friday Night Lights.”

For years, the Steelers have carried on the tradition of holding a night practice at Memorial Stadium. Players would make the short bus ride from Saint Vincent, then sign autographs for fans before the start of practice. The tradition, however, was interrupted by the pandemic and discontinued while the Steelers held camp at the former Heinz Field.

Although the night practice is viewed as a departure from the daily grind of training camp since it won’t be held under the hot sun, Tomlin doesn’t exactly view it as a break for his players.

“I’m looking for it to do the opposite,” he said. “I’m looking for it to turn up the volume. I’m looking for them to get caught up in the emotions of the atmosphere, and, hopefully, it brings out the best in them.”

Quarterback Mason Rudolph, who is in his fifth training camp, has experienced several night practices at Memorial Stadium and said it’s an enjoyable experience.

“It takes you back to high school, the whole setup and the fans in the stands,” he said. “It will be fun. It’s something I look forward to.”