Steelers Edge Ravens in Buzzer-Beater to Clinch AFC North
Steelers' Thrilling Buzzer-Beater Victory Over Ravens
In a heart-stopping AFC North title clash, the Pittsburgh Steelers edged the Baltimore Ravens 26-24 on Sunday night, clinching their first division crown since 2020. Aaron Rodgers orchestrated a masterful final drive, capping it with a 26-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III with 55 seconds left, silencing the home crowd at M&T Bank Stadium. The win sends Pittsburgh to host the Houston Texans in the wild-card round on Monday Night Football.
Post-Game Buzz from Steelers Stars
Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers praised his team's resilience, saying, "We fought until the end—that's Pittsburgh football." Wideout Calvin Austin III, the unlikely hero despite past injuries, beamed, "Aaron put it right in my hands; this one's for the city." Coach Mike Tomlin highlighted the defense's stand after Ravens kicker Tyler Loop missed a game-tying field goal at the buzzer, noting, "Clutch plays win championships."
Looking Ahead to Playoff Glory
This victory marks Pittsburgh's season sweep of Baltimore and ends the Ravens' playoff hopes at 8-9. Steelers players echoed excitement for breaking their playoff win drought since 2016, with Rodgers adding, "The magic's back—let's keep it rolling." Fans now dream of a deep postseason run.[1][2][3]
About the People Mentioned
Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Charles Rodgers (born December 2, 1983) is an American professional football quarterback currently playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at the University of California, Berkeley, where he set school records for the lowest single-season and career interception rates. Rodgers was selected 24th overall in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers[1][6]. Rodgers spent his first three NFL seasons as a backup to Brett Favre before becoming the Packers' starting quarterback in 2008. He quickly established himself as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. Rodgers led the Packers to victory in Super Bowl XLV in the 2010 season and was named Super Bowl MVP. He has won the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award four times (2011, 2014, 2020, 2021), joining an elite group of players with multiple MVP honors. His 2011 season is considered one of the greatest in NFL history, with a franchise-best 13–0 start, 45 touchdown passes, 4,643 passing yards, and an NFL-record passer rating of 122.5[1][2][3]. Throughout his career, Rodgers has led the league multiple times in key statistical categories, including touchdown-to-interception ratio, passer rating, and completion percentage. After 18 seasons with the Packers, he was traded to the New York Jets in 2023, where he played two seasons before being released after the 2024 season. He subsequently signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he currently plays[1][5][6]. At 41 years old and with over 20 years of NFL experience, Rodgers remains a prominent figure in professional football, known for his exceptional skill, longevity, and leadership on the field[4][6][7].
Mike Tomlin
Mike Tomlin, born March 15, 1972, is an American professional football coach currently serving as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL. He was named the Steelers' 16th head coach on January 22, 2007, at age 34, becoming the youngest head coach to win a Super Bowl and only the third head coach hired by the franchise since 1969. Tomlin is also the longest-tenured active NFL head coach as of 2023[1][2][4]. Tomlin began his coaching career in college football in 1995, initially coaching wide receivers at Virginia Military Institute. He held various defensive backs coaching roles at Memphis, Arkansas State, Cincinnati, and later joined the NFL as defensive backs coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2001. His rise culminated with his appointment as the Steelers' head coach in 2007[1][3]. Under Tomlin’s leadership, the Steelers won Super Bowl XLIII in the 2008 season, cementing his place in NFL history as the youngest head coach to win the championship. He also led the team to Super Bowl XLV in the 2010 season, though they lost to the Green Bay Packers. Throughout his tenure, Tomlin has maintained consistent success, achieving multiple playoff appearances and a strong regular-season record. By the 2025 season, under Tomlin’s guidance, the Steelers amassed a record of 187 wins, 108 losses, and 2 ties[1][4][6]. Tomlin is noted for his leadership, stability, and ability to develop competitive teams. Outside football, he is engaged in community activities, including supporting youth programs through the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. He is married to Kiya Tomlin, a fashion designer[2][3].
About the Organizations Mentioned
Pittsburgh Steelers
The **Pittsburgh Steelers** are a professional American football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a rich history dating back to 1933. Founded by **Arthur J. Rooney, Sr.**, the team has been a cornerstone of the Western Pennsylvania community for nearly a century. The Steelers are a member of the National Football League (NFL), competing in the American Football Conference (AFC) North division. ### History and Achievements - **Championships**: The Steelers have achieved significant success, winning six Super Bowl titles (IX, X, XIII, XIV, XL, and XLIII) and numerous divisional championships. - **Community Engagement**: The organization is deeply involved in community outreach and charitable activities, reflecting its commitment to the local area[7]. - **Legacy**: The Steelers are known for their dedicated fan base, "Steeler Nation," and their iconic black and gold uniforms. ### Current Status - **2025 Season**: The Steelers are in their 93rd NFL season, with **Mike Tomlin** as head coach and **Omar Khan** as general manager. They are aiming to improve on recent performances and make a strong playoff push[1]. - **Coaching Staff**: Notable coaches include **Arthur Smith** as offensive coordinator and **Teryl Austin** as defensive coordinator[5]. - **Roster**: The team has seen significant changes, including the addition of quarterback **Aaron Rodgers**, who is expected to lead the offense[1]. ### Notable Aspects - **Business and Community Impact**: The Steelers have a strong business model, with a focus on community engagement and philanthropy. The team's commitment to family support has seen improvements, such as introducing game-day daycare[6]. - **Leadership**: The Steelers are led by **Art Rooney II**, who continues the family's legacy of community involvement and team management[7]. Despite challenges like the need for locker room renovations and improvements in strength training programs, the Steelers remain a
Baltimore Ravens
## Introduction to the Baltimore Ravens The Baltimore Ravens are a professional American football team based in Baltimore, Maryland, competing in the National Football League (NFL). The team was established in 1996 after Art Modell relocated the Cleveland Browns franchise, marking a new era for football in Baltimore following a 12-year absence of professional football in the city[3][4]. ## History The Ravens' name was inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's poem "The Raven," reflecting the city's literary heritage. The team began as an expansion franchise but quickly gained success due to its strong defensive lineup, led by players like Ray Lewis[2][4]. The Ravens secured their first Super Bowl victory in 2001 and their second in 2013[2][3]. ## Key Achievements - **Super Bowl Wins**: The Ravens have won two Super Bowls, in 2001 (Super Bowl XXXV) and 2013 (Super Bowl XLVII)[2][3]. - **Consistent Performance**: The team has maintained a strong defensive reputation and has frequently appeared in the playoffs, with notable seasons like 2006 and 2019[1][3]. - **Division Titles**: The Ravens have won several division titles, including back-to-back AFC North titles in 2018 and 2019 under quarterback Lamar Jackson[3]. ## Current Status As of recent years, the Ravens have experienced resurgence, led by dynamic quarterback Lamar Jackson. The team has made the playoffs multiple times, including in 2020, 2022, and 2023[3]. The Ravens continue to be a competitive force in the NFL, known for their strong team culture and innovative approaches to the game. ## Notable Aspects - **Innovative Leadership**: The team is owned by Steve Bisciotti, who has been instrumental in maintaining the franchise's success[3]. - **Fan Engagement**: The Ravens have a dedicated fan base, with games played at M&T Bank
Houston Texans
The **Houston Texans** are a professional American football team based in Houston, Texas, competing in the National Football League (NFL) as a member of the American Football Conference (AFC) South division. Established in 2002 as an expansion franchise, they restored NFL football to Houston after the previous team, the Houston Oilers, relocated to Tennessee in 1997[1][2][4]. The franchise was founded through the efforts of Houston businessman Bob McNair, who secured the team after a competitive league process and a $700 million franchise fee[2]. The Texans’ inaugural season began with a notable victory over the Dallas Cowboys, marking the first time an expansion team won its debut game since 1961[3]. Early years were challenging, with the team frequently finishing last in their division and struggling offensively, especially in protecting quarterback David Carr, who led the league in sacks allowed during his tenure[1]. Over time, the team improved, drafting key players such as wide receiver Andre Johnson and running back Domanick Davis, both of whom became franchise icons[3]. The Texans have achieved moderate success, winning multiple AFC South division titles, notably in the 2010s, but they have yet to reach an NFL conference championship game or Super Bowl[4][5]. Their playoff history includes five appearances with a 3–5 postseason record. The franchise has experienced leadership changes, including the passing of founder Bob McNair in 2018, after which ownership passed to his family, and shifts in general management and coaching staff[5]. Home games are played at NRG Stadium, a modern venue with a retractable roof that seats over 72,000 fans, reflecting the team's strong local support and Houston’s status as a major sports market[4][6]. The Texans are recognized for their passionate fan base, significant regional identity, and ongoing efforts to build a competitive franchise in the NFL landscape[7].
