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===Week 17: vs. Cleveland Browns===
===Week 17: vs. Cleveland Browns===
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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
*'''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&nbsp;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&nbsp;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
Head coachMike Tomlin
Home fieldHeinz Field
Results
Record11–4
Division place1st AFC North
Playoff finishTBD
Pro BowlersJames Farrior
James Harrison
Troy Polamalu
Team MVPJames Harrison[1]
Team ROYPatrick 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

Main article: 2008 NFL 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
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.

Willie Parker[63][64]

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
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
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
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

1 2 3 4 Total
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

1 2 3 4 Total
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

1 2 3 4 Total
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

1 2 3 4OT Total
Ravens 3 10 0 70 20
Steelers 3 0 14 33 23
The Steelers have won 14 consecutive Monday night games at home.[118]

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

1 2 3 4 Total
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

1 2 3 4 Total
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

1 2 3 4 Total
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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 roster
Quarterbacks

Running Backs

Wide Receivers

Tight Ends

Offensive Linemen

Defensive Linemen

Linebackers

Defensive Backs

Special Teams

Reserve Lists

Practice Squad

Rookies in italics

Staff

Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 coaching staff
Front Office
  • Owner/Chairman - Dan Rooney
  • President - Art Rooney II
  • Vice President - Art Rooney, Jr.
  • Director of Football Operations - Kevin Colbert
  • Pro Personnel Coordinator - Doug Whaley
  • College Scouting Coordinator - Ron Hughes
  

Head Coaches

  • Head Coach - Mike Tomlin
  • Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Line - John Mitchell

Offensive Coaches

 

Defensive Coaches

Special Teams Coaches

Strength and Conditioning

  • Conditioning Coordinator - Garrett Giemont

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  120. ^ Varley, Teresa (2008-09-23). "Parker one of three starters to miss Ravens game". Steelers.com. Retrieved 2008-09-23.
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  122. ^ Associated Press (2008-09-23). "Steelers will be without RB Parker, DT Hampton against rival Ravens". ESPN.com. Retrieved 2008-09-23.
  123. ^ Associated Press (2008-09-29). "Simmons, Mendenhall suffer season-ending injuries". NFL.com. Retrieved 2008-09-30.
  124. ^ Bouchette, Ed (2008-09-30). "Steelers Notebook: Top pick, guard on IR, to miss rest of season". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 2008-09-30. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  125. ^ a b "Week Four GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-09-30. Retrieved 2008-09-30.
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  128. ^ "Week 5 – Steelers at Jaguars". Throwback Game of the Week. NFL.com. 2008-10-02. Retrieved 2008-10-02.
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  130. ^ a b "Week Five GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-10-05. Retrieved 2008-10-05.
  131. ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers At Jacksonville Jaguars. NFL.com. 2008-10-05. Retrieved 2008-10-05.
  132. ^ Varley, Teresa (2008-10-08). "Roethlisberger AFC Offensive Player of the Week". Steelers.com. Retrieved 2008-10-08.
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  134. ^ Lolley, F. Dale (2008-10-08). "Steelers getting healthy as Parker, Keisel return". Observer-Reporter. Retrieved 2008-10-08. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  135. ^ Bouchette, Ed (2008-10-08). "Injury list could trim with help of open date". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 2008-10-08. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  136. ^ Varley, Teresa (2008-10-08). "Saying thanks to true heroes". PittsburghSteelers.com. Retrieved 2008-10-08.
  137. ^ Price, Karen (2008-10-08). "Steelers host wounded vets at Heinz Field". Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Retrieved 2008-10-08. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  138. ^ Dulac, Gerry (2008-10-17). "Parker won't play in Sunday's Steelers game". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 2008-10-17. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  139. ^ a b "Week Seven GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-10-19. Retrieved 2008-10-19.
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  142. ^ Corner, Jahmal (2008-10-25). "Steelers place Holmes on inactive list". Reuters. Retrieved 2008-10-25. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  143. ^ a b "Week Eight GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-10-26. Retrieved 2008-10-26.
  144. ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). New York Giants At Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL.com. 2008-10-26. Retrieved 2008-10-26.
  145. ^ Associated Press (2008-11-03). "Obama, McCain on what to change in sports". Yahoo! Sports. Retrieved 2008-11-04.
  146. ^ a b "Week Nine GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-11-03. Retrieved 2008-11-03.
  147. ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers At Washington Redskins. NFL.com. 2008-11-03. Retrieved 2008-11-03.
  148. ^ a b "Week Ten GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-11-09. Retrieved 2008-11-09.
  149. ^ 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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  151. ^ a b "Week Eleven GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-11-16. Retrieved 2008-11-16.
  152. ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). San Diego Chargers At Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL.com. 2008-11-16. Retrieved 2008-11-16.
  153. ^ Bouchette, Ed (17 November 2008). "Steelers Notebook: Official admits mistake on play". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 17 November 2008. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  154. ^ Associated Press (17 November 2008). "Referee says officials errantly voided Steelers TD". NFL.com. Retrieved 17 November 2008. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |curly= ignored (help)
  155. ^ "Errant call in Steelers-Chargers affects betting". NBC Sports. 2008-11-17. Retrieved 2008-11-17.
  156. ^ 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)
  157. ^ a b "Week Twelve GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-11-20. Retrieved 2008-11-20.
  158. ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Cincinnati Bengals At Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL.com. 2008-11-20. Retrieved 2008-11-20.
  159. ^ a b "Week Thirteen GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-11-30. Retrieved 2008-11-30.
  160. ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots. NFL.com. 2008-11-30. Retrieved 2008-11-30.
  161. ^ Bouchette, Ed (8 December 2008). "Steelers Notebook: Harrison ties sack record, but wants more". Quick hits. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 8 December 2008. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help); Unknown parameter |curly= ignored (help)
  162. ^ a b "Week Fourteen GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-12-07. Retrieved 2008-12-07.
  163. ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Dallas Cowboys at Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL.com. 2008-12-07. Retrieved 2008-12-07.
  164. ^ Associated Press (11 December 2008). "Top defenses square off for AFC North supremacy". NFL.com. Retrieved 11 December 2008.
  165. ^ 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. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  166. ^ "Week Fifteen GameCenter". Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-12-14. Retrieved 2008-12-14.
  167. ^ "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens. NFL.com. 2008-12-14. Retrieved 2008-12-14.
  168. ^ Associated Press (14 December 2008). "Another strong finish allows Steelers to take AFC North crown". NFL.com. Retrieved 15 December 2008.
  169. ^ Cherry, Gene (14 December 2008). "Steelers claim AFC North title with dramatic win". Reuters. Retrieved 15 December 2008. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  170. ^ Bouchette, Ed (14 December 2008). "Steelers take Ravens, 13-9". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved 15 December 2008. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  171. ^ a b "Week Sixteen GameCenter" (PDF). Play-by-Play. NFL.com. 2008-12-21. Retrieved 2008-12-21.
  172. ^ a b "National Football League Game Summary" (PDF). Pittsburgh Steelers at Tennessee Titans. NFL.com. 2008-12-21. Retrieved 2008-12-21.
  173. ^ a b Associated Press (24 December 2008). "Browns game matters to Steelers' Tomlin - really". Lancaster Eagle-Gazette. Retrieved 27 December 2008. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
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