Steelers’ brutal 1st half features Mike McCarthy injury

Pittsburgh trailed the Buccaneers 13-3 at the half on Sunday. The Steelers are trying to pick up a win over a Tampa Bay team that has had struggles so far this year.

McCarthy did return in the second half.

“Despite the injury, McCarthy returned to the sideline for the start of the second half. He has also resumed his duties as the team’s offensive playcaller. According to the CBS Sports broadcast team, McCarthy twisted his ankle, but it’s unclear exactly when or what caused it,” CBS Sports reported.

McCarthy is in his first season leading the Steelers. The team holds a 3-2 record heading into the Buccaneers game. The head coach replaced Mike Tomlin, who stepped down following the 2025 season.

McCarthy has had some challenges so far this season. His Pittsburgh team has struggled to move the football at times. Steelers fans expect a lot from McCarthy, as the team had never had a losing season when Tomlin was coach.

The veteran head coach is also reuniting with veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers struggled in the first half Sunday against Tampa Bay. He was being outshined by Tampa Bay’s rookie quarterback, Jalon Daniels.

McCarthy previously coached for the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys, before taking over the role as Pittsburgh’s head coach. McCarthy is from the Pittsburgh area.

The Steelers and Buccaneers are playing at time of writing. Tampa Bay is 1-4 on the campaign.