New York: The Pittsburgh Steelers delivered a dominant performance on Monday Night Football, defeating the Miami Dolphins 28–15 to strengthen their grip on the AFC North and officially eliminate Miami from playoff contention.
Playing in freezing conditions with temperatures dipping to 17 degrees, the game began as a defensive struggle. The scoring finally opened late in the first half when Steelers kicker Riley Patterson drilled a 54-yard field goal with 5:11 remaining.
From that point on, Pittsburgh took full control.
Steelers Pull Away With Four Straight Touchdown Drives
After the opening field goal, the Steelers offense came alive, scoring touchdowns on four consecutive drives to put the game firmly out of reach. Miami managed two late fourth-quarter touchdowns through Tua Tagovailoa, who connected twice with Darren Waller, but the rally came too late to change the outcome.
With the victory, Pittsburgh improved to 8–6, remaining atop the AFC North. The Dolphins dropped to 6–8, missing the playoffs for the second consecutive season.
Kenneth Gainwell Powers Pittsburgh Ground Game
Running back Kenneth Gainwell once again proved to be a key piece of the Steelers’ offense. The 26-year-old rushed for 80 yards on 13 carries, averaging 6.2 yards per attempt, and broke off a crucial 38-yard run in the second half.
Gainwell was also effective in the passing game, catching seven passes for 46 yards, continuing a strong season-long partnership with Jaylen Warren that has stabilized Pittsburgh’s backfield.
Metcalf, Rodgers Deliver Big Moments
Wide receiver DK Metcalf made a major impact in the third quarter, hauling in a 28-yard touchdown reception that extended Pittsburgh’s lead. Metcalf finished with three catches for 55 yards and a score.
Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers added another highlight to the night by throwing a touchdown pass to Marquez Valdes-Scantling, evoking memories of their previous connection. Valdes-Scantling’s 19-yard touchdown catch early in the second half was his lone reception but proved pivotal in shifting momentum decisively in Pittsburgh’s favor.
Dolphins Fall Short Despite Solid Achane Performance
For Miami, De’Von Achane remained the offensive focal point. The dynamic running back rushed for 60 yards on 12 carries and led the team in receiving with six catches for 68 yards.
While Achane was productive, the Dolphins offense struggled overall, managing just 285 total yards and only 63 rushing yards, making sustained drives difficult against a disciplined Steelers defense.
Game Statistics Snapshot
- First Downs: Dolphins 16 | Steelers 22
- Total Yards: Dolphins 285 | Steelers 336
- Passing Yards: Dolphins 222 | Steelers 201
- Rushing Yards: Dolphins 63 | Steelers 135
- Turnovers: Dolphins 1 | Steelers 0
- Time of Possession: Dolphins 26:27 | Steelers 33:33
The Steelers’ balanced offense and ball control proved decisive, while Miami’s playoff hopes officially came to an end under the primetime lights.
