2008 Pittsburgh Steelers season: Difference between revisions
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! style="background:#FFD700"|Week Seventeen: Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers — Game information |
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*Sunday, December 27 at 1:00 PM EST |
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*'''Game attendance:''' at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
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*'''TV announcers:''' (CBS) [[Gus Johnson (sportscaster)|Gus Johnson]] and [[Steve Tasker]] |
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Although the Steelers are guarenteed the second seed in the AFC Tomlin stated, "It is a big week for us."<ref name=BrownMat/> With a win the Steelers will finish undefeated against opponents in the AFC North and win 12 games for the fourth season since 1979.<ref name=BrownMat>{{cite news |author= Associated Press|title= Browns game matters to Steelers' Tomlin - really|url= http://www.lancastereaglegazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008812240321|publisher= ''Lancaster Eagle-Gazette''|date= 24 December 2008|accessdate=27 December 2008}}</ref> |
Although the Steelers are guarenteed the second seed in the AFC Tomlin stated, "It is a big week for us."<ref name=BrownMat/> With a win the Steelers will finish undefeated against opponents in the AFC North and win 12 games for the fourth season since 1979.<ref name=BrownMat>{{cite news |author= Associated Press|title= Browns game matters to Steelers' Tomlin - really|url= http://www.lancastereaglegazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008812240321|publisher= ''Lancaster Eagle-Gazette''|date= 24 December 2008|accessdate=27 December 2008}}</ref> |
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Revision as of 01:38, 28 December 2008
2008 Pittsburgh Steelers season | |
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Head coach | Mike Tomlin |
Home field | Heinz Field |
Results | |
Record | 11–4 |
Division place | 1st AFC North |
Playoff finish | TBD |
Pro Bowlers | James Farrior James Harrison Troy Polamalu |
Team MVP | James Harrison[1] |
Team ROY | Patrick Bailey[2] |
The 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers season is the franchise's 76th season in the National Football League (NFL). The team entered the season as defending champions of the AFC North division and improved upon their 10–6 record from 2007. Despite having the most difficult schedule in the league, the team won the AFC North title and was called a Super Bowl contender by ESPN.[3] Pittsburgh finished their pre-season with a 3–1 record. The Steelers opened up their regular season on September 7, with a win over the Houston Texans. They will conclude the regular season against the Cleveland Browns on December 28 and begin the playoffs on January 10 or 11.
Offseason
Entering the 2008 season, the Pittsburgh Steelers lost ten-year lineman Alan Faneca, after his contract expired, and he signed with the New York Jets.[4] The Steelers released Allen Rossum, Jerame Tuman, and Clint Kriewaldt, on February 22.[5] The Steelers also lost Dan Kreider, Verron Haynes, Brian St. Pierre, and eight-year veteran Clark Haggans to free agency.[6] The Steelers renewed quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's contract with an eight year, $102 million agreement, the largest in franchise history.[7] The team resigned Max Starks to the largest single-year deal in franchise history, despite him not being a starter during the 2007 season.[8] Nate Washington, Chris Kemoeatu, and Trai Essex also agreed to one-year deals.[9][10] The Steelers signed both seven-year center Justin Hartwig and running back Mewelde Moore to multi-year deals, and linebacker Keyaron Fox agreed to a one-year deal.[10] Entering the season, 14 members of the Steelers were in the final year of their contracts.[11]
Draft
The 2008 NFL Draft was held on April 26 and April 27, 2008, at Radio City Music Hall. In the first round, the Steelers selected running back Rashard Mendenhall, from the University of Illinois, with the 23rd overall pick. He was the first running back selected in the first round by the Steelers since 1989. The Steelers selected Limas Sweed, from the University of Texas, in the second round. Sweed was ranked by the Steelers as one of the top three receivers in the draft.[12] The drafting of Sweed came after quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's suggestion of acquiring a tall wide receiver; Sweed is 6-feet 4-inches in height.[13] In round three, the Steelers selected Bruce Davis, of UCLA.[14] Davis primarily played defensive end at his alma mater, however, he is expected to switch to linebacker at the pro level.[15] The Steelers traded their fourth-round pick (123rd overall) to the New York Giants for the Giants' fourth and sixth-round selections, 130th and 194th overall, respectively.[16] The Steelers selected offensive tackle Tony Hills with the 130th overall selection, in the fourth round.[17] Like second-round pick Sweed, Hills came out of the University of Texas where he had been elected a captain of the football team during his senior season.[16] With their fifth-round selection, the Steelers chose quarterback Dennis Dixon.[18] Prior to an injury in 2007, Dixon was a Heisman Trophy candidate.[16] In the sixth round, the Steelers chose their second linebacker of the draft, Mike Humpal out of the University of Iowa.[19] Also in the sixth round, the final selection of the team was safety Ryan Mundy, a Pittsburgh native.[20] The Steelers did not pick in the seventh round, due to a 2007 trade with the Atlanta Falcons.[21] The Steelers Kevin Colbert said of the draft, "we’re happy with the way things turned out."[22] Also stating that the first and second-round selections were players who the team expected to have already been chosen.[22] Coach Mike Tomlin said that the Steelers tried to selected skilled offensive "weapons" over a strong offensive line, which struggled the previous season.[23] The following day, the Steelers signed twelve free-agent rookies.[24] The Steelers agreed to terms with all of their draft picks on July 25, two days prior to the start of training camp.[25]
Round | Overall Pick | Player | Position | College |
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1 | 23 | Rashard Mendenhall | Running back | Illinois |
2 | 53 | Limas Sweed | Wide receiver | Texas |
3 | 88 | Bruce Davis | Linebacker | UCLA |
4 | 130 | Tony Hills | Offensive tackle | Texas |
5 | 156 | Dennis Dixon | Quarterback | Oregon |
6 | 188 | Mike Humpal | Linebacker | Iowa |
6 | 194 | Ryan Mundy | Safety | West Virginia |
Mini-camp and OTAs
The Steelers held a mandatory three-day mini-camp in early May.[26] Hines Ward, Aaron Smith and Troy Polamalu attended the camp, but did not fully participate because of injuries.[27] First round draft pick, Rashard Mendenhall was welcomed by Steelers current running back Willie Parker.[26] Parker was "surprised" when he heard the Steelers had drafted a running back in the first round, but hopes to a work with Mendenhall like Jerome Bettis worked with Parker during his rookie season.[28] During the mini-camp, the offense experimented with formations using Parker and Mendenhall in the backfield simultaneously.[28] Receiver Hines Ward took a similar approach to Parker's in welcoming second round draft pick Limas Sweed. As with other receivers in the past, Ward was "very hands-on with Sweed throughout the weekend".[28] Coach Mike Tomlin called the new draft picks "humble", adding that he liked their "spirit and attitude"; however, it was too early to tell how well they will ultimately perform.[29]
The team held two Organized Team Activities (OTAs) prior to the draft,[30] in addition to 12 throughout May and June.[31] The OTAs were voluntary, however, most players did attend.[32] Many players routinely worked on their conditioning and strength together, in addition to "informal" on field training.[32] A week prior to the end of OTAs Mike Tomlin said he was happy with the team's progress during the sessions. Also stating, “We are having a productive off-season and that is what we are here for. We are here to get better individually and collectively and I think we are doing that.”[33] Limas Sweed experimented on special teams play for the first time ever, with a concentration in punt blocking.[33] On the day of the final OTA, June 12, Tomlin stated that while he was pleased with the progress of the team, no positions would be gained or lost based on the voluntary camp. Tomlin added, "...it's been teach-oriented, it's been skill-develop-oriented. It's different than playing the game of football."[34] The team was given 44 days off until the beginning of training camp.[34]
Off-field activity
In May, ESPN The Magazine released the findings of its annual survey of over 80,000 fans entitled the "Ultimate Standings: Fan Satisfaction Rankings". The Steelers ranked as the 25th best major league sports franchise out of 122 teams from MLB, NFL, NBA, and the NHL. The franchise finished one position behind the cross-town Pittsburgh Penguins.[35] The Steelers were sixth among all NFL teams.[36] In August, ESPN.com ranked Steelers' fans as the best in the National Football League, citing their "unbelievable" sellout streak of 299 consecutive games.[37][38]
During the Pittsburgh Penguins run for the Stanley Cup multiple members of the Steelers showed support for the cross-town team.[39] Ben Roethlisberger, attended games in Detroit, where he, and the Steelers, won Super Bowl XL three years prior.[40] Mike Tomlin watched Game Six of the finals outside Mellon Arena, along with 3,000 other fans, on a JumboTron which had been erected for fans unable to acquire tickets to the sold-out game.[41] Kevin Colbert, Charlie Batch, and Tomlin attended many games throughout the regular season.[42] In September, Penguins' coach Michel Therrien attended the Steelers' first game of the season.[43]
On February 17, Ernie Holmes, who played for the Steelers from 1972 to 1977, was killed in a car crash.[44] Ten days later, on February 27, award-winning journalist, Steelers radio announcer of 35 years, and inventor of the Terrible Towel, Myron Cope, died at age 79.[45] On June 6, Dwight White, a defensive end on the Steel Curtain died from a blood clot. Upon his death, Dan Rooney called White, "one of the greatest players to ever wear a Steelers uniform."[46] The Steelers held a pre-game ceremony in their honor prior to their first game against Houston.[47][48]
Training camp
The Steelers held their training camp at Saint Vincent College, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, for the 42nd consecutive year.[49][50] Players reported on July 27,[51] practices commenced the following day and ran through August 17.[52][53] Throughout the twenty three day span, seventeen included practices;[54] making the camp one of the shortest in Steelers history.[55] The camp was less demanding under Tomlin, who is now in his second year as coach. "We are a veteran team in some areas. You have to approach it differently because of that," said Tomlin.[56]
Pittsburgh looked to build on their defense, which was ranked first in the league throughout the 2007 season. At over thirty years in age each, all three starting linemen returned.[57] First round draft pick, Rashard Mendenhall entered camp with expectations to make an impact on the team throughout his rookie season. Pittsburgh's Willie Parker, who returned after suffering a broken leg in the 2007 season, was expected to share the load with Mendenhall.[58] On July 29, punter Daniel Sepulveda tore the ACL in his right leg and was placed on season-ending injured reserve.[59][60] The Steelers acquired Paul Ernster later in the day as a possible replacement.[61] After concluding practices at St. Vincent's, the Steelers began to practice at their facility on Pittsburgh's South Side. Tomlin called the camp "very productive".[62]
Pre-season
We're ready. I know that I feel good, and I can speak for the team. We've been practicing, gone through the preseason, and it's time to put what we've been practicing to work.
Pittsburgh opened their pre-season schedule with a 16–10 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.[65] The Steelers scored on their first possession, after driving 80 yards on eight plays.[66] Ben Roethlisberger's 19-yard touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes completed the drive.[67] In the first quarter, Charlie Batch was removed from the game after breaking his clavicle.[68] Jeff Reed converted three field goals from 20, 24, and 50 yards.[66] Toronto's Rogers Centre hosted the second pre-season game; it was the first pre-season game Pittsburgh played in Toronto since 1960.[69] Pittsburgh's starting offense played longer in the second game. Willie Parker increased his output over the first game by playing on third downs.[70] However, the team failed run the ball consistently and struggled on defense, losing the game 24–21.[71] "We fell short essentially in all three phases," stated coach Tomlin after the game.[72]
Pittsburgh traveled to Minnesota to play the Vikings for their third pre-season game. The Steelers's defense held the Vikings early, led by Aaron Smith who had three tackles, including one sack, in the first quarter.[73] The offense failed to score a touchdown, with Rashard Mendenhall fumbling twice.[74] Quarterback Byron Leftwich, who was signed to replace the injured Batch,[75][76] lead the team with 129 yards passing.[77] Jeff Reed accounted for all of the Steelers' points, kicking four field goals—the final with 4 seconds remaining—to give Pittsburgh a 12–10 victory.[78] Entering their final pre-season game the Steelers had selected every starting player except the punter.[79] Carolina tied the game with 1:54 remaining in regulation,[80] but rookie Dennis Dixon lead the Steelers on a 47-yard drive,[63] which was capped with Reed kicking the game winning 43-yard field goal as time expired.[64] After the three point victory,[81] Tomlin stated, "It has been a pleasure working with this group guys, but it is that time of year where we need to make tough decisions."[63] The Steelers cut 22 players on August 30, to bring their roster to the required 53 player total.[82][83] The following day the Steelers signed nine players from their pre-season team to the practice squad.[84]
Week | Date | Kickoff (ET) | TV | Opponent | Result | Record | Game Site | NFL Game Summary |
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1 | Friday August 8 | 7:30 PM | KDKA | Philadelphia Eagles | W 16 – 10 | 1 – 0 | Heinz Field | Summary |
2 | Thursday August 14 | 7:30 PM | KDKA | Buffalo Bills | L 24 – 21 | 1 – 1 | Rogers Centre, Toronto | Summary |
3 | Saturday August 23 | 8:00 PM | CBS | Minnesota Vikings | W 12 – 10 | 2 – 1 | Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome | Summary |
4 | Thursday August 28 | 7:00 PM | KDKA | Carolina Panthers | W 19 – 16 | 3 – 1 | Heinz Field | Summary |
Regular season
Based on 2007 records, the Steelers boasted the NFL's most difficult schedule in 2008,[85][86] with an opponent winning percentage of .598;[87] ten games were played against teams that finished 2007 with winning records.[88] The Steelers played each of the teams in the AFC North twice, once home and once on the road. The Steelers also faced the teams from the AFC South and NFC East divisions throughout the season.[89] Pittsburgh's matchups also included the San Diego and New England, who each won their division in the 2007 season.[89] The Steelers played five nationally televised primetime games throughout the season,[90] the maximum allowed number by the NFL.[91] Entering the first week of the season, Pittsburgh's players voted Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward, James Farrior, and Jeff Reed team captains.[92][93] James Harrison, James Farrior, and Troy Polamalu were selected to represent the Steelers at the 2009 Pro Bowl.[94][95] James Harrison surpassed the Steelers' single-season record for sacks, surpassing Mike Merriweather's previous record of 15 sacks in 1984.[96] The Steelers' defense tied the 1973 Los Angeles Rams record by holding 14 consecutive opponents under 200 yards of total offense.[97]
Schedule
Week | Date | Kickoff (ET) | TV | Opponent | Result | Record | Game Site | NFL.com Recap |
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1 | Sunday September 7 | 1:00 PM | CBS | Houston Texans | W 38 – 17 | 1 – 0 | Heinz Field | Summary |
2 | Sunday September 14 | 8:15 PM | NBC | Cleveland Browns | W 10 – 6 | 2 – 0 | Cleveland Browns Stadium | Summary |
3 | Sunday September 21 | 4:15 PM | CBS | Philadelphia Eagles | L 15 – 6 | 2 – 1 | Lincoln Financial Field | Summary |
4 | Monday September 29 | 8:30 PM | ESPN | Baltimore Ravens | W 23 – 20 (OT) | 3 – 1 | Heinz Field | Summary |
5 | Sunday October 5 | 8:15 PM | NBC | Jacksonville Jaguars | W 26 – 21 | 4 – 1 | Jacksonville Municipal Stadium | Summary |
6 | Bye Week | |||||||
7 | Sunday October 19 | 1:00 PM | CBS | Cincinnati Bengals | W 38 – 10 | 5 – 1 | Paul Brown Stadium | Summary |
8 | Sunday October 26 | 4:15 PM | FOX | New York Giants | L 21 – 14 | 5 – 2 | Heinz Field | Summary |
9 | Monday November 3 | 8:30 PM | ESPN | Washington Redskins | W 23 – 6 | 6 – 2 | FedExField | Summary |
10 | Sunday November 9 | 4:15 PM | CBS | Indianapolis Colts | L 24 – 20 | 6 – 3 | Heinz Field | Summary |
11 | Sunday November 16 | 4:15 PM | CBS | San Diego Chargers | W 11 – 10 | 7 – 3 | Heinz Field | Summary |
12 | Thursday November 20 | 8:15 PM | NFL Network | Cincinnati Bengals | W 27 – 10 | 8 – 3 | Heinz Field | Summary |
13 | Sunday November 30 | 4:15 PM | CBS | New England Patriots | W 33 – 10 | 9 – 3 | Gillette Stadium | Summary |
14 | Sunday December 7 | 4:15 PM | FOX | Dallas Cowboys | W 20 – 13 | 10 – 3 | Heinz Field | Summary |
15 | Sunday December 14 | 4:15 PM | CBS | Baltimore Ravens | W 13 – 9 | 11 – 3 | M&T Bank Stadium | Summary |
16 | Sunday December 21 | 1:00 PM | CBS | Tennessee Titans | L 31 – 14 | 11 – 4 | LP Field | Summary |
17 | Sunday December 28 | 1:00 PM | CBS | Cleveland Browns | Heinz Field |
- Green background indicates win.
- Red background indicates loss.
Division standings
The 2008 season was the Steelers' seventh as members of the AFC North Division. Pittsburgh defended their division title from the 2007 season, which they obtained by tying the Cleveland Browns' 10–6 record, but holding the tie-breaker with two wins over the Browns.[86] Through 2007, Pittsburgh is the only team to have won the AFC North three times, since its inception prior to the 2002 NFL season.[98] Entering the 2008 season, the Steelers were chosen to win the division by sportswriter Ron Borges,[99] as well as nine of 13 analysts interviewed by ESPN.com.[100] Four NFL.com analysts predicted that the Steelers would finish with a 10–6 record.[101] Through sixteen weeks, the Steelers have a record of 11–4, with one regular season game remaining. The team clinched the second seed in the AFC for the playoffs and will recieve a bye the first week of the post-season.[96]
AFC North | |||||||||
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W | L | T | PCT | DIV | CONF | PF | PA | STK | |
(2) Pittsburgh Steelers | 12 | 4 | 0 | .750 | 6–0 | 10–2 | 347 | 223 | W1 |
(6) Baltimore Ravens | 11 | 5 | 0 | .688 | 4–2 | 8–4 | 385 | 244 | W2 |
Cincinnati Bengals | 4 | 11 | 1 | .281 | 1–5 | 3–9 | 204 | 364 | W3 |
Cleveland Browns | 4 | 12 | 0 | .250 | 1–5 | 3–9 | 232 | 350 | L6 |
Week 1: vs. Houston Texans
Week One: Houston Texans vs. Pittsburgh Steelers — Game information | ||
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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
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Texans | 0 | 3 | 0 | 14 | 17 |
Steelers | 7 | 14 | 14 | 3 | 38 |
The Steelers started their regular season, against the Houston Texans, in front of 64,001 spectators at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. The Steelers drove the ball 52 yards on their opening drive, with their biggest gain coming on a 17-yard run from quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Willie Parker scored a touchdown at 5:44 of the opening quarter and added a second touchdown in the following quarter. After a LaMarr Woodley interception the Steelers extended their lead to 21 points when Roethlisberger completed a 13-yard touchdown pass to Ward. With 4:34 remaining in the half, former-Steelers' kicker Kris Brown converted a 34-yard field goal. Pittsburgh led the game 21–3 as time expired on the first half.[102][103]
In the second half, Parker scored his third touchdown of the game—surpassing his touchdown total for the entire 2007 season[104]—and was named the AFC offensive player of the week for his performance.[105][106] Pittsburgh's defense held Houston to six yards on their ensuing drive and the Steelers drove 80 yards to take a 35–3 lead. The Texans scored two touchdowns in the final quarter, but Pittsburgh's James Harrison led the team with three sacks—forcing a fumble on the third—and the Steelers won their first game of the season.[102][103]
Week 2: at Cleveland Browns
Week Two: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cleveland Browns — Game information | ||
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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
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Steelers | 0 | 7 | 3 | 0 | 10 |
Browns | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 6 |
The Steelers entered their first matchup with the Cleveland Browns having won 15 of the last 16 games between the two teams.[107] Ben Roethlisberger started the game having missed practice time during the week due to a shoulder injury he suffered in Week One.[108] The Steelers' defense held the Browns to 16 yards on their first four drives, as the teams played to a scoreless tie after the first quarter. After a Bryant McFadden interception the Steelers drove 70 yards and Roethlisberger connected with Hines Ward for their third touchdown combination of the season. Cleveland responded with a 14 play, 71 yard drive, but Troy Polamalu intercepted a Cleveland pass as time expired in the first half solidifying Pittsburgh's seven point halftime lead.[109][110]
Pittsburgh began their second drive of the third quarter with a 48-yard pass from Roethlisberger to Santonio Holmes and a 48-yard field goal from Jeff Reed brought the score to 10–0. The Browns' Phil Dawson converted two consecutive field goals, to pull Cleveland within four points with 3:21 remaining. After fourth down stop, Cleveland's offense took over with 26 seconds remaining, but failed to gain yardage as time expired.[109][110] With the win, the Steelers increased their win streak over the Browns to 10 consecutive games—the longest current winning streak over a single opponent in the NFL.[111]
Week 3: at Philadelphia Eagles
Week Three: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Philadelphia Eagles — Game information | ||
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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
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Steelers | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
Eagles | 0 | 10 | 0 | 5 | 15 |
Pittsburgh's first inter-conference opponent of the season was the Philadelphia Eagles. The Steelers scored on their first drive, with a Jeff Reed field goal. The Eagles offense drove 85 yards to take the lead on a touchdown pass from Donovan McNabb to Correll Buckhalter. The Eagles defense sacked Ben Roethlisberger eight times throughout the game, two of which resulted in fumbles.[112] Bryant McFadden intercepted his second pass of the season which allowed Reed to add his second field goal of the day—this one from 53-yards. The field goal brought the half time score to 10–6.[113][114]
A third quarter, diving Troy Polamalu interception, on Kevin Kolb's first NFL pass, was named a "Can't Miss Play" by NFL Network.[115] The Steelers did not capitalize, punting two more times in the third quarter. The Eagles entered the final quarter leading 10–6, and added two more points when Roethlisberger was called for Intentional grounding while in the end zone.[113][114] Roethlisberger was forced to leave the game after his hand was stepped on in the final quarter.[112] Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians took responsibility for the offense's performance.[116] "Anybody who wants anybody to blame for Philadelphia, you just blame me," Arians stated, "and then we can get ready for Baltimore."[117]
Week 4: vs. Baltimore Ravens
Week Four: Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers — Game information | ||
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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | OT | Total | |
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Ravens | 3 | 10 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 20 |
Steelers | 3 | 0 | 14 | 3 | 3 | 23 |
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/09/Ravens_vs_Steelers_2008_MNF.jpg/220px-Ravens_vs_Steelers_2008_MNF.jpg)
Donning their throwback uniforms,[119] the Steelers played the Baltimore Ravens in their first Monday Night game of the season. Multiple Steelers starters did not play in the game, due to various injuries.[120][121] After a 3–3 first quarter, Baltimore took a ten point lead into half time with a field goal and touchdown pass in the second quarter. Rashard Mendenhall—in his first NFL start[122]—left the game in the third quarter with a season-ending shoulder injury.[123][124] On the Steelers' third drive of the half, Roethlisberger connected with Santonio Holmes for a 38-yard touchdown pass. On the first play of Baltimore's ensuing drive, James Harrison's forced fumble was picked up by LaMarr Woodley and returned 7 yards for a touchdown. The two touchdowns within 15 seconds took the Steelers from ten points behind to four points ahead. In the final quarter, the Steelers' offense was stopped on the one yard line and Reed kicked his second field goal of the night. Baltimore drove 76 yards and tied the game with a touchdown. Neither team was able to score on their final drive as the regulation clock expired.[125][126]
Baltimore won the overtime coin toss and elected to receive. The Ravens started the drive at their own 15 yard line. The Steelers held them for no gain on the first two plays and Lawrence Timmons sacked Flacco on third down. The Steelers took over after a punt and Mewelde Moore caught a 24 yard reception to bring the Steelers to Baltimore's 31-yard line. Jeff Reed converted a 46-yard field goal to win the game for the Steelers.[125][126] Reed was named the NFL's special teams player of the week.[127] With the win the Steelers passed the Ravens for first place in the AFC North at 3–1, as well as extending their all-time record of 14 consecutive home wins on Monday Night Football.[118]
Week 5: at Jacksonville Jaguars
Week Five: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars — Game information | ||
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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
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Steelers | 7 | 13 | 0 | 6 | 26 |
Jaguars | 14 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 21 |
The Steelers' matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars—their first since the Jaguars knocked the Steelers out of the 2007 playoffs—was featured as the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Throwback Game of the Week.[128] On the Steelers opening drive, Roethlisberger—who missed practice time during the week due to injections for his shoulder[129]—was intercepted by Rashean Mathis who returned the ball 72 yards for a touchdown. Pittsburgh responded by driving 71 yards, with Heath Miller receving a 1-yard touchdown pass to tie the game. Jacksonville re-gained the lead on the next drive when Maurice Jones-Drew ran for a touchdown. Pittsburgh took the lead in the second quarter with two field goals and a 48 yard touchdown pass from Roethlisberger to Nate Washington.[130][131]
Jacksonville scored first in the final quarter with a touchdown pass from David Garrard to Marcedes Lewis. The Steelers drove from their 20 yard line in the fourth quarter, Ward received an 8-yard touchdown pass to put the Steelers up by 5 points with 1:53 remaining in regulation, however, the 2-pt conversion failed.[130][131] Roethlisberger received the AFC offensive player of the week award for his 309 yard, 3 touchdown pass performance, despite having an injured throwing shoulder.[132] The NFL selected the game as the league's Week Five Game of the Week.[133]
Week 6: Bye Week
The Steelers used their bye week to rest injured players including Brett Keisel, Willie Parker, Jeff Reed, and Ben Roethlisberger.[134][135] The team hosted an event to honor wounded veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom at Heinz Field. Players signed autographs and held on-field drills with the veterans, while soldiers and Marines spoke of their experiences.[136] Chris Hoke, who attended the event said, "These are the people who fight for us to have our freedom and be who we are as Americans. To come out here and spend a couple hours with them and hear their stories is unbelievable. There's nothing better than this."[137]
Week 7: at Cincinnati Bengals
Week Seven: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals — Game information | ||
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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
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Steelers | 10 | 0 | 7 | 21 | 38 |
Bengals | 0 | 7 | 3 | 0 | 10 |
Willie Parker was expected to return after missing two games, but aggravated his knee injury during a weekday practice and missed the game.[138] Pittsburgh received the opening kickoff and drove 75 yards to open the scoring up with a 2-yard touchdown pass from Ben Roethlisberger to Mewelde Moore to put the Steelers up 7–0. The Steelers' defense forced the Bengals offense into five consecutive three-and-outs, before the Bengals scored on their final possession of the opening half. The 5 yard pass from Ryan Fitzpatrick to Chad Johnson brought the Bengals withing three points of the Steelers who added a field goal from Jeff Reed.[139][140]
Pittsburgh added their second touchdown of the game on their opening drive of the second half when Moore rushed to the left side for 13 yards. Cincinnati retaliated on their ensuing drive adding a field goal from Dave Rayner. The Steelers scored three consecutive touchdowns in the final quarter, while holding the Bengals scoreless. At 8:26 of the fourth quarter Roethilisberger connected with Nate Washington for a 50 yard touchdown pass. Pittsburgh's Moore scored his second touchdown of the day—his second rushing—and Hines Ward's 16 yard touchdown reception gave the Steelers 31 points to the Bengal's ten. Moore finished the game with 120 yards rushing, while Santonio Holmes lead the Steelers with 89 receiving yards.[139][140]
Week 8: vs. New York Giants
Week Eight: New York Giants vs. Pittsburgh Steelers — Game information | ||
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1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
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Giants | 3 | 6 | 0 | 12 | 21 |
Steelers | 7 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 14 |
Willie Parker missed his fourth game due to a knee injury.[141] Santonio Holmes also missed the game after a "small quantity of marijuana" was found in his car and the team placed him on the inactive list.[142] Mewelde Moore opened up the game's scoring with a 32-yard touchdown run on the Steelers opening drive. The 5–1 New York Giants responded with a field goal on the ensuing drive. Pittsburgh stopped the Giants on four consecutive plays from inside the Steelers 2-yard line to force a turnover on downs. But were unable to score when two Ben Roethlisberger interceptions and a punt lead to two more field goals in the second quarter for the Giants.[143][144]
At 10:10 of the third quarter Roethlisberger completed a 65-yard touchdown pass to Nate Washington to give the Steelers a 14–9 lead. Later in the quarter, a Steelers 53-yard touchdown pass was negated due to a holding penalty and Pittsburgh was forced to punt. In the final quater Pittsburgh kept New York out of the end zone on three plays inside the 10-yard line, however, the Giants connected on a field goal to bring the Giants to within two points. On the next drive, James Harrison—who was called in to replace injured long snapper Greg Warren—snapped the ball out of the end zone to give the Giants a safety and tie the game. The Giants drove after receiving the safety's kickoff to score a touchdown—taking a 21–14 lead with 3:07 remaining. Pittsburgh was unable to convert on their final two drives, as Roethlisberger threw his fourth interception of the day.[143][144]
Week 9: at Washington Redskins
Week Nine: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Washington Redskins — Game information | ||
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|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Steelers | 0 | 10 | 6 | 7 | 23 |
Redskins | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
The night before the United States presidential election, the Steelers played in the nation's capitol, Washington, D.C.; both major party candidates were interviewed a half-time.[145] The Washington Redskins took a 6–0 lead in the first quarter with two field goals. The Steelers defense shut out the Redskins in the second quarter while the Steelers scored on a field goal to cut the lead in half. A blocked punt with 2:21 remaining in the half led to a Steelers 1-yard touchdown run from Ben Roethlisberger.[146][147]
Due to an injury to Roethlisberger, Byron Leftwich took over as quarterback in the second half. Leftwich completed a 50 yard pass to Nate Washington on the opening drive of the third quarter; the Steelers capped the drive with a Willie Parker touchdown run. Pittsburgh extended their lead in the final quarter with a touchdown pass from Leftwich to Santonio Holmes. The Redskins gained 124 yards in the final quarter, but were unable to score. The Steelers' 17 point win took their record to 6–2 on the season.[146][147]
Week 10: vs. Indianapolis Colts
Week Ten: Indianapolis Colts vs. Pittsburgh Steelers — Game information | ||
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|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Colts | 7 | 7 | 3 | 7 | 24 |
Steelers | 7 | 10 | 0 | 3 | 20 |
Both the Steelers and Indianapolis Colts drove more than 60 yards on their opening offensive drives, each scored a touchdown to bring the score to 7–7 after the first quarter. A Steelers 42-yard flea flicker advanced the ball to the 2 yard line. On the following play Mewelde Moore scored his second touchdown of the game. The Steelers extended their lead to ten, but an interception with 1:30 remaining in the half led to a Colts touchdown—bringing the halftime score to 17–14.[148][149]
The Colts kicked a 36-yard field goal in the third quarter to tie the game at 17. A Steelers field goal in the final quarter gave them a three point lead. The Colts scored on Peyton Manning's third touchdown pass of the game to take the lead with 3:10 remaining in regulation. The Steelers drove from their own 27 yard line, but were unable to score.[148][149]
Week 11: vs. San Diego Chargers
Week Eleven: San Diego Chargers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers — Game information | ||
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|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chargers | 7 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 10 |
Steelers | 0 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 11 |
Pittsburgh entered week eleven with starters having missed 31 games due to injuries.[150] The San Diego Chargers scored first, and led 7–0 after the first quarter of play. On the second play of the second quarter, the Steelers' James Harrison forced a fumble in the endzone, then forced a safety by tackling the Marcus McNeill after he had recovered the fumble. Jeff Reed converted on a field goal as time expired on the first half, pulling the Steelers within two points.[151][152]
Reed kicked his second field goal of the game from 41-yards to give the Steelers the lead going into the final quarter. The Chargers drove 74 yards on 17 plays, converting on a field goal to give them the lead again, with 6:45 remaining. On the Steelers' ensuing drive, the offense drove 73 yards and Reed converted on his third field goal of the day, giving the Steelers an 11–10 lead with 15 seconds remaining in regulation. The Chargers attempted to score on their final play, but Troy Polamalu forced and recovered a fumble, returning it for a touchdown.[151][152] The call was reversed when the officials ruled that San Diego had made an illegal forward pass. After the game, head referee Scott Green admitted that the touchdown should have been counted.[153][154] With the touchdown not counted the final score kept Pittsburgh under the 5 point spread by which they were favored, and resulted in over $32 million being lost in bets.[155] The game was the first game in NFL history to end with a final score of 11–10.[156]
Week 12: vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Week Twelve: Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers — Game information | ||
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|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bengals | 7 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 10 |
Steelers | 0 | 10 | 10 | 7 | 27 |
The Steelers concluded their primetime schedule with their only Thursday night game of the season. The Cincinnati Bengals took a 7–0 lead in the first quarter after a 62 yard drive. In the second quarter the Steelers tied the game on a touchdown pass from Ben Roethlisberger to Heath Miller. Jeff Reed converted a field goal with 1:56 remaining in the first half to give the Steelers a 10–7 halftime lead.[157][158]
Pittsburgh added another ten points in the third quarter when Gary Russell ran for his first rushing touchdown of the season, after Reed's second field goal. In the final quarter, Roethlisberger rushed for a touchdown to put the Steelers up by a score of 27–10. Roethlisberger passed for 243 yards and one touchdown, while Santonio Holmes led the game with 84 receiving yards. James Farrior led the Steelers with 8 tackles.[157][158]
Week 13: at New England Patriots
Week Thirteen: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New England Patriots — Game information | ||
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|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Steelers | 3 | 7 | 13 | 10 | 33 |
Patriots | 7 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 10 |
The Steelers fell behind the New England Patriots less than three minutes into the first quarter, after an interception of Ben Roethlisberger was driven to the endzone. The Steelers came back with 2:55 remaining in the initial quarter to convert on a 20 yard Jeff Reed field goal. The Patriots extended their lead to seven points with a 29 yard field goal in the second quarter. Pittsburgh drove 63 yards on nine plays, capping their drive with a touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes to tie the game at ten points at the halfway point.[159][160]
Pittsburgh took their first lead of the game on their first drive of the second half, after Reed's second field goal put them up by three points. On the ensuing kickoff the Steelers recovered a Patriots' fumble and Roethlisberger connected with Hines Ward for an 11-yard touchdown pass. James Harrison forced his first of two fumbles on the Patriots' next drive and the Steelers recovered as Reed added his third field goal of the game—putting the Steelers up 23–10. Gary Russell scored a touchdown after Lawrence Timmons returned an interception 89 yards to the Patriots' one-yard line.[159][160]
Week 14: vs. Dallas Cowboys
Week Fourteen: Dallas Cowboys vs. Pittsburgh Steelers — Game information | ||
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|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cowboys | 0 | 3 | 10 | 0 | 13 |
Steelers | 0 | 3 | 0 | 17 | 20 |
The Steelers and the Dallas Cowboys held each other scoreless in the first quarter. Troy Polamalu intercepted a pass in his fourth consecutive game, overall he led the league with seven interceptions.[161] The Steelers scored first on a 24-yard field goal from Jeff Reed with 2:44 remaining in the second quarter. The Cowboys coverted a 44-yard field goal as time expired on the first half to tie the game at 3–3.[162][163]
A Tony Romo touchdown pass in the third quarter gave the Cowboys their first lead of the game. The lead was extended when Nick Folk converted his second field goal of the day, putting the Cowboys up 13–3 as the game entered the final quarter. Reed converted his second field goal of the game, bringing the Steelers within seven points with 7:20 remaining in regulation. On the Steelers next drive, Ben Roethelisberger threw a touchdown pass to Heath Miller—tying the game with 2:10 remaining. Deshea Townsend intercepted Romo's next pass and returned the ball 25 yards, scoring a touchdown to give the Steelers a seven point lead, which they held to the end of the game.[162][163]
Week 15: at Baltimore Ravens
Week Fifteen: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens — Game information | ||
---|---|---|
|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Steelers | 0 | 3 | 0 | 10 | 13 |
Ravens | 0 | 6 | 3 | 0 | 9 |
Entering their second game of the season against Baltimore, the Steelers' defense ranked first in the league, while the Ravens' defense ranked second. "We're going to win by any means necessary. If the defense has to score, if the special teams have to kick in a score, or if the offense has to score 50 points -- whatever it takes to win," stated James Harrison prior to the game.[164]
Both teams were held scoreless before a record crowd at M&T Bank Stadium[165] until a Baltimore field goal gave the Ravens a 3–0 lead at 12:34 of the second quarter. Pittsburgh tied the game on a Jeff Reed field goal; Matt Stover converted a second time to give the Ravens a three point lead at halftime. Stover kicked his third field goal of the game in the third quarter, extending their lead to six points. In the final quarter, Reed kicked his second field goal of the game to put the Steelers within three points. On the Steelers final drive of the game, the offense drove 92 yards over 2:53, with Ben Roethlisberger completing a touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes with 50 seconds remaining. The Ravens embarked on one more drive, but the Steelers second interception of the game prevented them from scoring.[166][167] With the victory the Steelers won their second consecutive AFC North title[168][169] and became the first AFC franchise to amass 550 wins.[165]
Week 16: at Tennessee Titans
Week Sixteen: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Tennessee Titans — Game information | ||
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|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Steelers | 0 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 14 |
Titans | 0 | 10 | 7 | 14 | 31 |
Pittsburgh entered their final road game of the regular season with a chance to surpass the Tennessee Titans for the top seed in the AFC.[170] The Steelers and the Titans were scoreless after the first quarter, when Tennessee took a 3–0 lead on the second play of the second quarter. Justin Gage's 34-yard reception later in the quarter extended the lead to 10–0. Pittsburgh's Santonio Holmes also recieved a touchdown pass in the second quarter, bringing the halftime score to 10–7.[171][172]
In the second half, Ben Roethlisberger threw his second touchdown pass of the game—to Hines Ward—to give the Steelers their only lead of the game. After a 21-yard touchdown run on Tennessee's ensuing drive, the Titans entered the final quarter with a three point lead. The Titans scored two touchdowns in the final quarter, and the Steelers were unable overcome two Roethelisberger fumbles and two interceptions throughout the game.[171][172]
Week 17: vs. Cleveland Browns
Week Seventeen: Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers — Game information | ||
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|
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Browns | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Steelers | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Although the Steelers are guarenteed the second seed in the AFC Tomlin stated, "It is a big week for us."[173] With a win the Steelers will finish undefeated against opponents in the AFC North and win 12 games for the fourth season since 1979.[173]
Personnel
Roster
Staff
Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 coaching staff | ||||||||
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Front Office
|
Head Coaches
Offensive Coaches
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Defensive Coaches
Special Teams Coaches
Strength and Conditioning
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(help) - ^ Bouchette, Ed (17 December 2008). "Steelers' Polamalu, Harrison, Farrior only picks for Pro Bowl". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 18 December 2008.
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(help) - ^ "Three Steelers Selected to the 2009 Pro Bowl Squad". PittsburghSteelers.com. 16 December 2008. Retrieved 18 December 2008.
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(help) - ^ Associated Press (14 December 2008). "Steelers ride second straight fourth-quarter rally to back-to-back division titles". Curtain Call. ESPN.com. Retrieved 27 December 2008.
- ^ The Steelers won the AFC North during the 2002, 2004, and 2007 NFL seasons.
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- ^ "Pittsburgh Steelers (Consensus division finish: 1st)". ESPN.com. 2008-08-28. Retrieved 2008-08-30.
- ^ Borges, Ron (2008-08-25). "Steelers preview: Face challenge from long-time rival". NFL.com. Retrieved 2008-08-30.
- ^ a b "Week One GameCenter". Play-by-play. NFL.com. 2008-09-07. Retrieved 2008-09-08.
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- ^ "Willie Parker". Career Stats. NFL.com. Retrieved 2008-09-08.
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(help) - ^ Brown, Scott (2008-09-11). "Parker earns AFC honors". Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Retrieved 2008-09-12.
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(help) - ^ Varley, Teresa (2008-09-12). "Rivalry remains strong". PittsburghSteelers.com. Retrieved 2008-09-14.
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(help) - ^ a b "Week Two GameCenter". Play-by-play. NFL.com. 2008-09-14. Retrieved 2008-09-15.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers At Cleveland Browns. NFL.com. 2008-09-15. Retrieved 2008-09-15.
- ^ Associated Press (2008-09-14). "Sore shoulder doesn't bother Roethlisberger; Steelers hold Browns without a TD". Fast Facts. ESPN.com. Retrieved 2008-09-15.
- ^ a b Varley, Teresa (2008-09-23). "Rough outing for Roethlisberger". Steelers.com. Retrieved 2008-09-23.
- ^ a b "Week Three GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-09-21. Retrieved 2008-09-23.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers At Philadelphia Eagles. NFL.com. 2008-09-21. Retrieved 2008-09-23.
- ^ "Polamalu INT". Sprint Can't Miss Plays. NFL Network. 2008-09-21. Retrieved 2008-09-23.
- ^ Brown, Scott (2008-09-26). "Arians accepts blame for struggles against Eagles". Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Retrieved 2008-09-26.
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(help) - ^ Dulac, Gerry (2008-09-26). "Arians: I'll take blame for Philadelphia fiasco". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 2008-09-26.
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(help) - ^ a b Associated Press (2008-09-29). "Steelers climb back, hang on for OT victory as Ravens lose first of season". ESPN.com. Retrieved 2008-09-30.
- ^ "Steelers looking forward to home field advantage". Steelers.com. 2008-09-26. Retrieved 2008-09-26.
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suggested) (help) - ^ Varley, Teresa (2008-09-23). "Parker one of three starters to miss Ravens game". Steelers.com. Retrieved 2008-09-23.
- ^ Bouchette, Ed (2008-09-23). "Steelers Parker, Hampton injured, won't play Monday". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 2008-09-23.
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(help) - ^ Associated Press (2008-09-23). "Steelers will be without RB Parker, DT Hampton against rival Ravens". ESPN.com. Retrieved 2008-09-23.
- ^ Associated Press (2008-09-29). "Simmons, Mendenhall suffer season-ending injuries". NFL.com. Retrieved 2008-09-30.
- ^ Bouchette, Ed (2008-09-30). "Steelers Notebook: Top pick, guard on IR, to miss rest of season". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 2008-09-30.
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(help) - ^ a b "Week Four GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-09-30. Retrieved 2008-09-30.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Baltimore Ravens At Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL.com. 2008-09-30. Retrieved 2008-09-30.
- ^ Dulac, Gerry (2008-10-01). "Steelers sign Russell; kicker Reed named player of week". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 2008-10-01.
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(help) - ^ "Week 5 – Steelers at Jaguars". Throwback Game of the Week. NFL.com. 2008-10-02. Retrieved 2008-10-02.
- ^ Dulac, Gerry (2008-10-02). "Big Ben doesn't practice again". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 2008-10-02.
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(help) - ^ a b "Week Five GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-10-05. Retrieved 2008-10-05.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers At Jacksonville Jaguars. NFL.com. 2008-10-05. Retrieved 2008-10-05.
- ^ Varley, Teresa (2008-10-08). "Roethlisberger AFC Offensive Player of the Week". Steelers.com. Retrieved 2008-10-08.
- ^ Week 5: Pittsburgh vs. Jacksonville Game of the Week (Television production). Jacksonville, Florida: National Football League. Retrieved 2008-10-10.
{{cite AV media}}
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(help) - ^ Bouchette, Ed (2008-10-08). "Injury list could trim with help of open date". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 2008-10-08.
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(help) - ^ Varley, Teresa (2008-10-08). "Saying thanks to true heroes". PittsburghSteelers.com. Retrieved 2008-10-08.
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(help) - ^ Dulac, Gerry (2008-10-17). "Parker won't play in Sunday's Steelers game". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 2008-10-17.
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(help) - ^ a b "Week Seven GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-10-19. Retrieved 2008-10-19.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers At Cincinnati Bengals. NFL.com. 2008-10-19. Retrieved 2008-10-19.
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(help) - ^ Corner, Jahmal (2008-10-25). "Steelers place Holmes on inactive list". Reuters. Retrieved 2008-10-25.
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: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
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suggested) (help) - ^ a b "Week Eight GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-10-26. Retrieved 2008-10-26.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). New York Giants At Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL.com. 2008-10-26. Retrieved 2008-10-26.
- ^ Associated Press (2008-11-03). "Obama, McCain on what to change in sports". Yahoo! Sports. Retrieved 2008-11-04.
- ^ a b "Week Nine GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-11-03. Retrieved 2008-11-03.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers At Washington Redskins. NFL.com. 2008-11-03. Retrieved 2008-11-03.
- ^ a b "Week Ten GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-11-09. Retrieved 2008-11-09.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Indianapolis Colts At Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL.com. 2008-11-09. Retrieved 2008-11-09.
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ignored (help) - ^ a b "Week Eleven GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-11-16. Retrieved 2008-11-16.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). San Diego Chargers At Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL.com. 2008-11-16. Retrieved 2008-11-16.
- ^ Bouchette, Ed (17 November 2008). "Steelers Notebook: Official admits mistake on play". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 17 November 2008.
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(help) - ^ Associated Press (17 November 2008). "Referee says officials errantly voided Steelers TD". NFL.com. Retrieved 17 November 2008.
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- ^ Robinson, Alan (17 November 2008). "Steelers beat Chargers in NFL's first 11-10 game". Yahoo! Sports. Retrieved 17 November 2008.
{{cite news}}
: Unknown parameter|curly=
ignored (help) - ^ a b "Week Twelve GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-11-20. Retrieved 2008-11-20.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Cincinnati Bengals At Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL.com. 2008-11-20. Retrieved 2008-11-20.
- ^ a b "Week Thirteen GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-11-30. Retrieved 2008-11-30.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots. NFL.com. 2008-11-30. Retrieved 2008-11-30.
- ^ Bouchette, Ed (8 December 2008). "Steelers Notebook: Harrison ties sack record, but wants more". Quick hits. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 8 December 2008.
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(help); Unknown parameter|curly=
ignored (help) - ^ a b "Week Fourteen GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-12-07. Retrieved 2008-12-07.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Dallas Cowboys at Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL.com. 2008-12-07. Retrieved 2008-12-07.
- ^ Associated Press (11 December 2008). "Top defenses square off for AFC North supremacy". NFL.com. Retrieved 11 December 2008.
- ^ a b Bouchette, Ed (15 December 2008). "Steelers Notebook: Game ends with some spit and a shove". Quick hits. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 15 December 2008.
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(help) - ^ "Week Fifteen GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-12-14. Retrieved 2008-12-14.
- ^ "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens. NFL.com. 2008-12-14. Retrieved 2008-12-14.
- ^ Associated Press (14 December 2008). "Another strong finish allows Steelers to take AFC North crown". NFL.com. Retrieved 15 December 2008.
- ^ Cherry, Gene (14 December 2008). "Steelers claim AFC North title with dramatic win". Reuters. Retrieved 15 December 2008.
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: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
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suggested) (help) - ^ Bouchette, Ed (14 December 2008). "Steelers take Ravens, 13-9". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 15 December 2008.
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: Italic or bold markup not allowed in:|publisher=
(help) - ^ a b "Week Sixteen GameCenter" (PDF). Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-12-21. Retrieved 2008-12-21.
- ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers at Tennessee Titans. NFL.com. 2008-12-21. Retrieved 2008-12-21.
- ^ a b Associated Press (24 December 2008). "Browns game matters to Steelers' Tomlin - really". Lancaster Eagle-Gazette. Retrieved 27 December 2008.
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