The Steelers survived a wild 29–24 road win over the Lions to keep control of the AFC North; Mike Tomlin now has 19 straight non‑losing seasons, and Pittsburgh needs just a Week 17 win or another Ravens loss to clinch the division.
The AFC picture shifted dramatically Sunday night when Baltimore fell to New England, handing Pittsburgh a clearer path to the division. With the Ravens stumbling, the Steelers’ margin for error narrowed to a simple formula: win at Cleveland next week or hope Baltimore slips again, either result would seal the AFC North for Pittsburgh.
For Mike Tomlin, the result was another milestone. The victory extended his streak of seasons without a losing record to 19 straight years, a run that has become a defining feature of his tenure and a major reason the Steelers remain a possible playoff team.
The finish in Detroit was chaotic and controversial. On the game’s final play Jared Goff appeared to score on a lateral sequence, but officials ruled offensive pass interference on Amon‑Ra St. Brown, wiping out the touchdown and preserving a Steelers 29–24 victory, a call that will be debated for weeks.
Off‑field and sideline incidents added to the drama. DK Metcalf was involved in a sideline altercation with a fan during the game; the NFL announced a two‑game suspension for Metcalf for initiating a physical confrontation, a penalty that could affect Pittsburgh’s plans if it stands after appeal. Defensive lineman Ya Ya Black was also shown on camera making an obscene gesture toward the crowd, an image that circulated widely and intensified the postgame conversation. Alex Highsmith may also be fined for his trip of Lions quarterback Jared Goff.
The highlight of the afternoon came from Kenneth Gainwell. After being interfered with by Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone, Gainwell hauled in a one‑handed catch while lying on the turf, realized he had not been touched, got to his feet and ran into the end zone for a 45‑yard touchdown, a play already being discussed as a legitimate Catch of the Year candidate.
Pittsburgh’s offense leaned on a dominant ground performance from Jaylen Warren, who finished with 143 rushing yards on 14 carries and 2 rushing touchdowns, including two long 45‑yard bursts that swung momentum. Aaron Rodgers managed the game through the air, completing 27 of 41 passes for 266 yards and 1 touchdown. The defense looked stalwart in the first half, but looked gas in the second half. Jared Goff ended up throwing for 364 yards and 3 touchdowns for Detroit. The bend but don’t break defense was able to narrowly escape another nailbiter.
Looking ahead, the Week 17 trip to Cleveland is now a must‑win if Pittsburgh wants to clinch without relying on other results. The Browns can be disruptive, so the Steelers will need to protect the quarterback, get Warren going early, and keep emotions in check after a week marked by both brilliance and controversy. Another side story is the fact that Cleveland Browns superstar defensive end, is looking to break the season all-time sack record of 22.5, owned by ex-NY Giants Michael Strahan…and Pittsburgh Steelers T.J. Watt.
(247 Sports)