Mike Tomlin: JuJu Smith-Schuster's Hit on Vontaze Burfict a 'Teachable Moment'

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin called wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster's blindside block on Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict in Monday's game a "teachable moment."

According to Sean Gentille of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Tomlin commented on the hit Tuesday, saying, "[Smith-Schuster's] actions after the hit are more disturbing than the hit itself. He's a better sportsman than he displayed after the block." 

The hit occurred on a short pass to Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell in the fourth quarter and resulted in Burfict getting carted off due to a head injury.

Smith-Schuster stood over Burfict and taunted him after the hit, resulting in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.

Following Pittsburgh's 23-20 victory, Smith-Schuster apologized for his actions in relation to the hit, according to ESPN.com's Jeremy Fowler: "I was just playing to the whistle. I didn't mean to stand over him. I was trying to get a big block for Le'Veon Bell for him to get upfield. The unsportsmanlike conduct is not me. I shouldn't have done that. I hope he's OK and I hope he gets better."

Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown yelled "karma" multiple times when Smith-Schuster addressed the incident in the locker room, per Fowler.

Burfict and Brown have a history, as Burfict concussed Brown with a hit in a 2015 playoff game and was subsequently suspended for three games.

By virtue of Monday's win, the Steelers remained tied atop the AFC with the New England Patriots at 10-2 and moved closer to a potential clash for home-field advantage when the teams meet in Week 15.

Smith-Schuster has been a key component within Pittsburgh's offense this season, as the rookie second-round pick out of USC is second on the team in receiving yardage (585 yards) and receiving touchdowns (five).