Patrick
The Pittsburgh Steelers produced four consecutive touchdown drives for the first time in seven years, rolling past the Miami Dolphins 28–15 on Monday night.
The emphatic performance marked one of Pittsburgh’s most complete offensive outings in recent memory and came at a crucial point in the season.
AFC North Race Tightens at the Top
With the victory, the Steelers improved to 8–6, allowing them to maintain first place in the AFC North. The Baltimore Ravens, sitting at 7–7, remain within striking distance with three regular-season games left.
On the other side, Miami’s loss snapped a five-game winning streak, dropping the Dolphins to 6–8 and effectively ending their playoff hopes in the AFC.
Defensive Stalemate Breaks Late in First Half
Played in freezing conditions in Pittsburgh, the opening half leaned heavily toward defense. Both teams struggled to generate rhythm until the Steelers finally broke through.
A methodical 12-play drive concluded with Connor Heyward punching the ball into the end zone on a quarterback sneak, giving Pittsburgh a 7–3 edge heading into halftime.
Steelers Explode After the Break
The momentum swung decisively after intermission. Pittsburgh wasted no time, covering 71 yards in six plays to open the third quarter. Aaron Rodgers found Marquez Valdes-Scantling sprinting free down the left side for a 19-yard touchdown, igniting a scoring barrage.
Following a Dolphins three-and-out, the Steelers struck again. D.K. Metcalf showcased his physicality, shedding coverage and powering through defenders on a 28-yard catch-and-run touchdown, stretching the lead to 21–3.
The fourth straight touchdown capped the run when tight end Jonnu Smith took a rare rushing attempt and turned it into a 14-yard score, firmly putting the game out of reach.
Dolphins Respond, but Rally Falls Short
Despite longstanding concerns about their cold-weather struggles, Tua Tagovailoa and the Miami offense managed to answer late. Tight end Darren Waller came down with a contested catch in the end zone, though a failed two-point conversion left the score at 28–9.
Waller added another touchdown with 2:32 remaining, highlighting a strong individual effort. However, after the Steelers recovered the ensuing onside kick, Pittsburgh calmly drained the remaining clock to seal the win.
Key Performances and Final Statistics
Rodgers delivered an efficient night, completing 23 of 27 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns, distributing the ball to eight different receivers. Metcalf led the team in receiving yardage with 55 yards.
The Steelers also leaned on Kenneth Gainwell, who contributed 80 rushing yards on 13 carries and added seven receptions for 46 yards, leading the team in catches.
For Miami, Tagovailoa finished 22-of-28 for 254 yards, throwing two touchdowns and one interception. Waller stood out with seven receptions for 66 yards and two scores, while De’Von Achane delivered a balanced performance with 68 receiving yards and 60 rushing yards.
Pittsburgh’s rare run of four straight touchdown drives showcased a timely offensive breakthrough and kept the Steelers firmly in control of the AFC North race. While Miami flashed resilience late, the early deficit and Pittsburgh’s second-half surge proved too much to overcome.