2008 Pittsburgh Steelers season

Sixth Super Bowl Championship Season for the Pittsburgh Steelers March 2012 March 2026 Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 Mike Tomlin Bruce Arians Dick LeBeau Kevin Colbert The Rooney Family Heinz Field 12–4 1st AFC North border:none; padding:0; 3 ILB James Farrior OLB James Harrison SS Troy Polamalu border:none; padding:0; 3 James Harrison (1st team) Troy Polamalu (1st team) James Farrior (2nd team) James HarrisonRobert Dvorchak Steelers name Harrison MVP http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08360/937609-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 25, 2008 December 26, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20090108065916/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08360/937609-66.stm January 8, 2009 dead Patrick BaileyEd Bouchette Steelers Notebook: Bailey selected as team's top rookie http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08353/935899-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 18, 2008 December 19, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081221222551/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08353/935899-66.stm December 21, 2008 dead Won Divisional Playoffs(vs. Chargers) 35–24Won AFC Championship(vs. Ravens) 23–14 Won Super Bowl XLIII(vs. Cardinals) 27–23 Steelers seasons The 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers season was the franchise's 76th season in the National Football League (NFL). The season concluded with the team winning Super Bowl XLIII to become the first franchise in the NFL with six Super Bowl titles. The Steelers entered the season as defending champions of the AFC North Division, coming off a 10–6 record in 2007. Based on the previous season's results, the team faced the most difficult schedule in over 30 years; however, they were called Super Bowl contenders by ESPN. https://www.espn.com/nfl/fpi NFL Power Rankings: May 2008 edition June 2, 2008 ESPN https://web.archive.org/web/20080517030713/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/powerranking?season=2008&week=0 May 17, 2008 live The Steelers opened their regular season on September 7, with a win over the Houston Texans en route to a 12–4 record, and a second straight AFC North Division title as well as a sweep of their division. In his second season as head coach Mike Tomlin was selected in fan balloting as the Motorola Coach of the Year. Fans pick Tomlin as NFL coach of the year http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_609359.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review January 29, 2009 January 30, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090201061809/http://pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_609359.html February 1, 2009 dead mdy-all Fans vote Steelers' Tomlin coach of the year http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09029/945456-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette January 29, 2009 January 31, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090201072123/http://post-gazette.com/pg/09029/945456-66.stm February 1, 2009 dead Linebacker James Harrison was named the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year after leading a defense which set the standard for the league in nearly every defensive category, including total yardage allowed, points allowed, passing yardage allowed, first downs allowed, yards per play, and yards per pass, among others. The playoffs began on January 11, 2009, with a win over the San Diego Chargers. The following week saw the third victory of the season over the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship game and the advancement to Super Bowl XLIII where the Steelers defeated the Arizona Cardinals on February 1, 2009. Personnel thumb|right|250px|At the Super Bowl XLIII pep rally at Heinz Field. Staff 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers #08214A white #EEC607 Ownership – Rooney family Chairman – Dan M. Rooney President – Arthur J. Rooney II Vice president – Arthur J. Rooney, Jr. Administration advisor – Chuck Noll Administrative assistant – Diane Lowe Administrative assistant – Janet Rusnak Business office Director of business – Mark Hart Controller – Bob Tyler Business administration – Dan Ferens Human relations/office coordinator – Geraldine Glenn Business & football administration coordinator – Omar Khan Assistant controller – Jodie Spagnolli Administrative assistant – Rebecca Mihalcik Administrative assistant – Kelly Serafin Administrative assistant – Barbara Snyder Media relations Communications coordinator – Dave Lockett Public relations/media manager – Burt Lauten Administrative assistant – Emily Scerba Intern – Jason Seidling Community relations Community relations manager – Michele Rosenthal Administrative assistant – Stacie Lawrence Photography Team photographer – Mike Fabus Photography intern – Danielle Hudak Information technology Information technology manager – Scott Phelps IT/Network Support Technician – Jon Pugliano Steelers.com/Steelers Digest Editor – Bob Labriola Assistant editor/website – Teresa Varley Football operations Director of football operations – Kevin Colbert Pro personnel coordinator – Doug Whaley College scouting coordinator – Ron Hughes Special assistant/pro and college personnel – Joe Greene Pro/college scout – Phil Kreidler College scout – Mark Gorscak College scout – Kelvin Fisher College scout – Bruce McNorton College scout – Dan Rooney BLESTO Scout – David Petett College personnel – Bill Nunn Administrative assistant – Maureen Mannion Administrative assistant – Karen Mercalde Intern – Luke Palko Head coach – Mike Tomlin Assistant head coach/defensive line – John Mitchell Offensive coordinator – Bruce Arians Quarterbacks – Ken Anderson Running backs – Kirby Wilson Wide receivers – Randy Fichtner Tight ends – James Daniel Offensive line – Larry Zierlein Offensive assistant – Harold Goodwin Defensive coordinator – Dick LeBeau Linebackers – Keith Butler Defensive backs – Ray Horton Defensive assistant – Lou Spanos Special teams – Bob Ligashesky Assistant special teams – Amos Jones Conditioning coach – Garrett Giemont Conditioning assistant – Marcel Pastoor Player development – Raymond Jackson Administrative assistant – Chrissy Bulger Administrative assistant – Mia Daudet Medical staff Physician, internal medicine – Dr. Mark Duca Physician, internal medicine – Dr. Tony Yates Physician, neurosurgery – Dr. Joseph Maroon Physician, orthopedic surgery – Dr. James P. Bradley Athletic training staff Head athletic trainer – John Norwig Assistant athletic trainer – Ryan Grove Assistant athletic trainer – Ariko Iso Football equipment staff Equipment manager – Rodgers Freyvogel Field manager – Rich Baker Video Video coordinator – Bob McCartney Video assistant – Andy Lizanich Video assistant – Jason McMann 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers Media Guide Roster 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers 53 10 8  2 Dennis Dixon y  4 Byron Leftwich  7 Ben Roethlisberger 38 Carey Davis KR 21 Mewelde Moore KR/PR 39 Willie Parker 33 Gary Russell American football 10 Santonio Holmes PR 14 Limas Sweed y 86 Hines Ward 85 Nate Washington 49 Sean McHugh 83 Heath Miller 89 Matt Spaeth 69 Jason Capizzi T 74 Willie Colon American football T 79 Trai Essex G/T 62 Justin Hartwig C 66 Tony Hills American football y T 68 Chris Kemoeatu G 65 Jeremy Parquet T 72 Darnell Stapleton G 78 Max Starks T 93 Nick Eason DE 98 Casey Hampton NT 76 Chris Hoke NT 99 Brett Keisel DE 90 Travis Kirschke DE 71 Scott Paxson DE 96 Orpheus Roye DE 91 Aaron Smith American football DE 46 Patrick Bailey American football y OLB 53 Bruce Davis linebacker y OLB 51 James Farrior ILB 50 Larry Foote ILB 57 Keyaron Fox ILB 54 Andre Frazier OLB 92 James Harrison American football OLB 94 Lawrence Timmons ILB 56 LaMarr Woodley OLB 31 Fernando Bryant CB 23 Tyrone Carter FS 25 Ryan Clark American football FS 22 William Gay cornerback CB 37 Anthony Madison CB 20 Bryant McFadden CB 43 Troy Polamalu SS 27 Anthony Smith safety FS 24 Ike Taylor CB 26 Deshea Townsend CB 17 Mitch Berger P  3 Jeff Reed American football K 61 Jared Retkofsky y LS 16 Charlie Batch QB IR 67 Kyle Clement y DT IR 88 Jonathan Dekker TE IR 97 Arnold Harrison LB IR 55 Mike Humpal LB IR 34 Rashard Mendenhall y RB/KR IR  9 Daniel Sepulveda P IR 73 Kendall Simmons G IR 77 Marvel Smith T IR 60 Greg Warren American football LS IR 81 Dallas Baker WR 64 Doug Legursky y C 30 Roy Lewis American football y CB 29 Ryan Mundy S 15 Martin Nance WR 84 Dezmond Sherrod y TE 28 Justin Vincent RB 95 Donovan Woods American football y LB 2009 Pittsburgh Steelers Media Guide 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/pit/2008_roster.htm Pro-Football-Reference.com 2014-12-27 Off-season 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.February 3, 2008 Roethlisberger Faneca agrees to five-year, $40 million deal with Jets https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3272497 live https://web.archive.org/web/20080403065745/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3272497 April 3, 2008 March 25, 2008 ESPN.com Associated Press Allen Rossum, Jerame Tuman, and Clint Kriewaldt were released on February 22. http://www.nfl.com/teams/pittsburghsteelers/transactions?transactionWeek=02%2F24%2F2008&team=PIT Pittsburgh Steelers Transactions: Week of Feb 24 May 31, 2008 February 24, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers Transactions NFL The team also lost Dan Kreider, Verron Haynes, Brian St. Pierre, and eight-year veteran Clark Haggans to free agency. http://www.nfl.com/teams/pittsburghsteelers/transactions?transactionWeek=03%2F02%2F2008&team=PIT Pittsburgh Steelers Transactions: Week of March 2 May 31, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers Transactions NFL The Steelers renewed quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's contract with an eight-year, $102 million agreement, the largest in franchise history. Smith Michael Roethlisberger gets more than $36 million in guarantees in new deal ESPN February 3, 2008 https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3274467 February 3, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080305151638/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3274467 March 5, 2008 live The team re-signed Max Starks to the largest single-year deal in franchise history, despite him not being a starter during the 2007 season. Ed Bouchette Starks hopes to make big impact http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08161/888463-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette June 9, 2008 June 10, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080612040049/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08161/888463-66.stm June 12, 2008 dead Nate Washington, Chris Kemoeatu, and Trai Essex also agreed to one-year deals. http://www.nfl.com/teams/pittsburghsteelers/transactions?team=PIT Pittsburgh Steelers Transactions May 31, 2008 April 21, 2008 NFL https://web.archive.org/web/20080504052824/http://www.nfl.com/teams/pittsburghsteelers/transactions?team=PIT May 4, 2008 live http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/4809816/Pittsburgh-Steelers-Strategy-and-Personnel?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=5 Pittsburgh Steelers Strategy and Personnel June 2, 2008 Sports Xchange May 30, 2008 Fox Sports (USA) https://web.archive.org/web/20080622022321/http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/4809816/Pittsburgh-Steelers-Strategy-and-Personnel?CMP=OTC-K9B140813162&ATT=5 June 22, 2008 dead mdy-all Seven-year center Justin Hartwig and running back Mewelde Moore were signed to multi-year deals, and linebacker Keyaron Fox agreed to a one-year deal. Entering the season, 14 players were in the final year of their contracts. John Harris Steelers facing contract issues http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_579657.html?source=rss&feed=3 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review July 27, 2008 July 27, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080804034048/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_579657.html?source=rss&feed=3 August 4, 2008 dead mdy-all Draft 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 franchise 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. Ed Bouchette Steelers draft RB from Illinois, WR from Texas to protect Big Ben http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08118/877010-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette April 28, 2008 April 27, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080501001201/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08118/877010-66.stm May 1, 2008 dead 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.http://news.steelers.com/article/88964/ Roethlisberger gets his wish June 2, 2008 Teresa Varley April 30, 2008 Steelers.com dead https://web.archive.org/web/20080808120055/http://news.steelers.com/article/88964 August 8, 2008 In round three, the Steelers selected Bruce Davis, of UCLA.http://news.steelers.com/article/88658/ 2008 NFL Draft: Bruce Davis June 3, 2008 Steelers.com https://web.archive.org/web/20080601183312/http://news.steelers.com/article/88658/ June 1, 2008 dead mdy Davis primarily played defensive end at his alma mater, however, he is expected to switch to linebacker at the pro level. 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.http://news.steelers.com/article/88936/ Steelers Select Seven Players in 2008 NFL Draft June 3, 2008 Steelers.com https://web.archive.org/web/20080601131830/http://news.steelers.com/article/88936/ June 1, 2008 dead mdy The Steelers selected offensive tackle Tony Hills with the 130th overall selection, in the fourth round.http://news.steelers.com/article/88791/ 2008 NFL Draft: Tony Hills June 3, 2008 Steelers.com https://web.archive.org/web/20080525071623/http://news.steelers.com/article/88791/ May 25, 2008 dead mdy 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. With their fifth-round selection, the Steelers chose quarterback Dennis Dixon.http://news.steelers.com/article/88794/ 2008 NFL Draft: Dennis Dixon June 3, 2008 Steelers.com https://web.archive.org/web/20080531082932/http://news.steelers.com/article/88794/ May 31, 2008 dead mdy Prior to an injury in 2007, Dixon was a Heisman Trophy candidate. The sixth round selection was the Steelers' second linebacker of the draft, Mike Humpal out of the University of Iowa.http://news.steelers.com/article/88795/ 2008 NFL Draft: Mike Humpal June 3, 2008 Steelers.com https://web.archive.org/web/20080617224448/http://news.steelers.com/article/88795/ June 17, 2008 dead mdy Also in the sixth round, the final selection of the team was safety Ryan Mundy, a Pittsburgh native.http://news.steelers.com/article/88896/ 2008 NFL Draft: Ryan Mundy June 3, 2008 Steelers.com https://web.archive.org/web/20080528013442/http://news.steelers.com/article/88896/ May 28, 2008 dead mdy The Steelers did not pick in the seventh round, due to a 2007 trade with the Atlanta Falcons. Bouchette Ed Tomlin vows to shore up deficiencies in kickoff, punt coverage Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 14, 2007 http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07318/833669-66.stm April 2, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080328231342/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07318/833669-66.stm March 28, 2008 dead Kevin Colbert, Director of Football Operations, said of the draft, "we’re happy with the way things turned out."http://news.steelers.com/article/88920/ Director of Football Operations and Coach Mike Tomlin June 3, 2008 Steelers.com April 27, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080617224151/http://news.steelers.com/article/88920/ June 17, 2008 dead mdy Also stating that the first and second-round selections were players who the team expected to have already been chosen. Coach Mike Tomlin said that the Steelers tried to select skilled offensive "weapons" over a strong offensive line, which struggled the previous season. Mike Tomlin April 28, 2008 Tomlin on Steelers' Draft http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d808076b6 Interview NFL Network June 2, 2008 2:41 https://web.archive.org/web/20080501141627/http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d808076b6 May 1, 2008 live The following day, the Steelers signed twelve free-agent rookies. Bouchette Ed Steelers sign a dozen rookie free agents Pittsburgh Post-Gazette April 28, 2008 http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08119/877298-66.stm April 29, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080501163440/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08119/877298-66.stm May 1, 2008 dead All draft picks agreed to terms by July 25, two days prior to the start of training camp. Ed Bouchette Steelers sign top picks Mendenhall and Sweed http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08207/899545-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20230409101003/https://old.post-gazette.com/pg/08207/899545-66.stm dead April 9, 2023 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette July 25, 2008 July 25, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 1 23 Rashard Mendenhall Running back Illinois yes no 2 53 Limas Sweed Wide receiver Texas yes no 3 88 Bruce Davis Linebacker UCLA yes no 4 130 Tony Hills Offensive tackle Texas yes no 5 156 Dennis Dixon Quarterback Oregon yes no 6 188 Mike Humpal Linebacker Iowa yes no 6 194 Ryan Mundy Safety West Virginia yes no no no Mini-camp and OTAs A mandatory three-day mini-camp was held in early May. Associated Press Steelers hoping Parker, rookie Mendenhall can provide 1–2 punch http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d8081eeb7&template=with-video&confirm=true NFL May 5, 2008 May 31, 2008 Hines Ward, Aaron Smith and Troy Polamalu attended the camp, but did not fully participate because of injuries. Scott Brown Steelers mini-camp http://www.pittsburghlive.com/images/video/multimedia.php?res=hi&v=2066&1=1 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review June 5, 2008 0:04 https://web.archive.org/web/20080605144554/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/images/video/multimedia.php?res=hi&v=2066&1=1 June 5, 2008 dead mdy-all First round draft pick, Rashard Mendenhall was welcomed by Steelers current running back Willie Parker. Parker was "surprised" when he heard a running back was selected in the first round, but hoped to work with Mendenhall like Jerome Bettis worked with Parker during his rookie season. James Walker Parker happily showing Mendenhall the Steelers' way https://www.espn.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=walker_james&id=3383512 ESPN May 6, 2008 June 2, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080510192606/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=walker_james&id=3383512 May 10, 2008 live During the mini-camp, the offense experimented with formations using Parker and Mendenhall in the backfield simultaneously. 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". 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. Mike Tomlin Camp wraps up http://www.pittsburghlive.com/images/video/multimedia.php?res=hi&v=2075&1=1 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review June 5, 2008July 2018 InternetArchiveBot yes The team held two Organized Team Activities (OTAs) prior to the draft, Ed Bouchette Holmes pans offseason drills http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08164/889325-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette June 12, 2008 June 12, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080612105659/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08164/889325-66.stm June 12, 2008 dead in addition to 12 throughout May and June. Scott Brown 2008 Steelers mini-camp http://www.pittsburghlive.com/images/video/multimedia.php?res=hi&v=2066&1=1 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review June 5, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080605144554/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/images/video/multimedia.php?res=hi&v=2066&1=1 June 5, 2008 dead mdy-all The OTAs were voluntary, however, most players did attend. Ed Bouchette Two fights develop; it's hockey day for Steelers http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08157/887517-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette June 5, 2008 June 5, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080608023018/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08157/887517-66.stm June 8, 2008 dead Many players routinely worked on their conditioning and strength together, in addition to "informal" on field training. 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.”Teresa Varley Pleased with their progress http://news.steelers.com/article/90009/ Steelers.com June 6, 2008 June 6, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080609014357/http://news.steelers.com/article/90009/ June 9, 2008 dead mdy Limas Sweed experimented on special teams play for the first time ever, with a concentration in punt blocking. 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." Ed Bouchette Tomlin says no jobs won in spring, without hitting http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08165/889666-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20081202144419/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08165/889666-66.stm dead December 2, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette June 13, 2008 June 13, 2008 The team was given 44 days off until the beginning of training camp. 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 Ranking." 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 hockey team Pittsburgh Penguins.Ultimate Standings: Fan Satisfaction Rankings http://sports.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/mag/franchiseRanks ESPN The Magazine October 8, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080518221758/http://sports.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/mag/franchiseRanks May 18, 2008 The Steelers were sixth among all NFL teams.Ultimate Standings: Fan Satisfaction Rankings – NFL http://sports.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/mag/franchiseRanks?sport=nfl&year=2008 ESPN The Magazine October 8, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080502151408/http://sports.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/mag/franchiseRanks?sport=nfl&year=2008 May 2, 2008 In August, ESPN.com ranked Steelers' fans as the best in the National Football League, citing their "unbelievable" sellout streak of 299 consecutive games.ESPN ranks Steelers fans No. 1 http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_585606.html?source=rss&feed=3 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review August 30, 2008 August 30, 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20081008134730/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_585606.html?source=rss&feed=3 October 8, 2008 mdy Matt Mosley NFL's best fans? We gotta hand it to Steelers (barely) https://www.espn.com/nfl/preview08/columns/story?id=3530077 ESPN August 29, 2008 August 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080831233745/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/preview08/columns/story?id=3530077 August 31, 2008 live During the Pittsburgh Penguins run for the Stanley Cup multiple members of the Steelers showed support for the cross-town team.Teresa Varley Steelers have plenty of praise for the Penguins http://news.steelers.com/article/90558/ Steelers.com June 6, 2008 June 6, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080609014402/http://news.steelers.com/article/90558/ June 9, 2008 dead mdy Ben Roethlisberger attended Stanley Cup Finals games in Detroit, where he and the Steelers won Super Bowl XL three years prior. Ed Bouchette Steelers Notebook: Big Ben gets Stanley Cup fever http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08142/883440-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette May 21, 2008 May 22, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080526181738/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08142/883440-66.stm May 26, 2008 dead 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. Dan Majors Penguins' faithful assemble at arena http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08157/887600-61.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette June 5, 2008 June 6, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080608023720/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08157/887600-61.stm June 8, 2008 dead Kevin Colbert, Charlie Batch, and Tomlin attended many games throughout the regular season. Ed Bouchette Steelers and Pirates supporting Penguins in big way http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08143/883866-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette May 22, 2008 May 22, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080526181554/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08143/883866-66.stm May 26, 2008 dead In September, Penguins' coach Michel Therrien attended the Steelers' first game of the season. Pens Coach Has Big Football Weekend http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=381460 PittsburghPenguins.com September 8, 2008 September 8, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080911234225/http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=381460 September 11, 2008 dead On February 17, Ernie Holmes, who played for the Steelers from 1972 to 1977, was killed in a car crash. Rooney: 'Holmes Will Be Missed By Steelers Family' http://kdka.com/steelers/Steelers.Ernie.Holmes.2.632928.html KDKA February 18, 2008 September 6, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080630040319/http://kdka.com/steelers/Steelers.Ernie.Holmes.2.632928.html June 30, 2008 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. Collier Gene Remembering Myron Cope: He spoke for Steelers Nation in a language all his own http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08059/861127-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20080229221642/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08059/861127-66.stm dead February 29, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette February 28, 2008 June 6, 2008 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." Former Steeler Dwight White dies http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08158/887963-100.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette June 6, 2008 June 6, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080609010445/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08158/887963-100.stm June 9, 2008 dead A pre-game ceremony was held in their honor prior to the first game of the season. Gerry Dulac Posthumous tributes http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08249/909626-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 5, 2008 September 6, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080908002850/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08249/909626-66.stm September 8, 2008 dead Steelers pay tribute to legends http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_587075.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review September 8, 2008 September 8, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080909105222/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_587075.html September 9, 2008 dead mdy-all Training camp Training camp was held at Saint Vincent College, in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, for the 42nd consecutive year. Colin Dunlap Saint Vincent is in top shape for Steelers http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08198/897239-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20080717164112/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08198/897239-66.stm dead July 17, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette July 16, 2008 July 16, 2008 Paul Paterra St. Vincent puts on game-day face for Steelers http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_577787.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review July 16, 2008 July 18, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080717234033/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_577787.html July 17, 2008 dead mdy-all Players reported on July 27, Ed Bouchette REPORTING DAY: Mike Tomlin heads into his second training camp http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08209/899904-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette July 27, 2008 July 28, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080729224744/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08209/899904-66.stm July 29, 2008 dead practices commenced the following day and ran through August 17.http://news.steelers.com/article/90554/ Steelers 2008 Training Camp Information June 13, 2008 Steelers.com https://web.archive.org/web/20080612005925/http://news.steelers.com/article/90554/ June 12, 2008 dead mdy https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3441450 2008 Training camp schedule June 24, 2008 June 19, 2008 ESPN https://web.archive.org/web/20080622190104/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3441450 June 22, 2008 live Throughout the twenty three day span, seventeen included practices; Dan Stefano Summer vacation isn't always a break for Steelers http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_572847.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review June 15, 2008 June 16, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080619065454/http://pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_572847.html June 19, 2008 dead making the camp one of the shortest in Steelers history. Ed Bouchette '08 camp to be one of shortest http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08157/887518-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette June 5, 2008 June 5, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080608023028/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08157/887518-66.stm June 8, 2008 dead The camp was less demanding under Tomlin, who was 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. Scott Brown Tomlin plans less demanding training camp http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_572502.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review June 13, 2008 June 13, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080614122206/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_572502.html June 14, 2008 dead mdy-all 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. John Harris Steelers D-line aging gracefully http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_572938.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review June 17, 2008 June 17, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080617190954/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_572938.html June 17, 2008 dead mdy-all 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. John Harris Expect much from Mendenhall http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_573070.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review June 17, 2008 June 17, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080617185955/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_573070.html June 17, 2008 dead mdy-all On July 29, punter Daniel Sepulveda tore the ACL in his right leg and was placed on season-ending injured reserve.Steelers' Sepulveda likely lost for the season http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_580044.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review July 29, 2008 July 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080730124108/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_580044.html July 30, 2008 dead Ed Bouchette Torn ACL in right knee will keep left-footed punter out entire season http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08212/900451-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette July 30, 2008 August 1, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080805154127/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08212/900451-66.stm August 5, 2008 dead The Steelers acquired Paul Ernster later in the day as a possible replacement. Steelers P Sepulveda out for season https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=txsteelerssepulveda&prov=st&type=lgns https://archive.today/20120715104816/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=txsteelerssepulveda&prov=st&type=lgns dead July 15, 2012 Yahoo! Sports July 29, 2008 August 1, 2008 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". Ed Bouchette Breaking camp http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08231/905178-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette August 18, 2008 August 21, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080821021354/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08231/905178-66.stm August 21, 2008 dead Preseason 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 250px right Pittsburgh opened their pre-season schedule with a 16–10 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.Scott Brown Steelers win preseason opener http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_581980.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review August 8, 2008 August 9, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080811193905/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_581980.html August 11, 2008 dead mdy-all The Steelers scored on their first possession, after driving 80 yards on eight plays.http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/boxscore?game_id=29789&displayPage=tab_box_score&season=2008&week=PRE1&override=true Box Score August 9, 2008 Preseason Week One NFL August 8, 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090206001458/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/boxscore?game_id=29789&displayPage=tab_box_score&season=2008&week=PRE1&override=true February 6, 2009 Ben Roethlisberger's 19-yard touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes completed the drive. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/drivechart?game_id=29789&displayPage=tab_drive_chart&season=2008&week=PRE1&override=true Drive Chart August 9, 2008 Preseason Week One NFL August 8, 2008 In the first quarter, Charlie Batch was removed from the game after breaking his clavicle. Ed Bouchette Batch exits Eagles game with fractured collarbone http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08221/902994-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette August 8, 2008 August 9, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080809163520/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08221/902994-66.stm August 9, 2008 dead Jeff Reed converted three field goals from 20, 24, and 50 yards. Toronto's Rogers Centre hosted the second pre-season game; it was the first pre-season game Pittsburgh played in Toronto since 1960.http://news.steelers.com/article/88377/ Steelers Release 2008 Regular Season Schedule June 13, 2008 Steelers.com https://web.archive.org/web/20080618044402/http://news.steelers.com/article/88377/ June 18, 2008 dead mdy Pittsburgh's starting offense played longer in the second game. Willie Parker increased his output over the first game by playing on third downs. John Harris First-team offense plays longer http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_583019.html?source=rss&feed=3 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review August 15, 2008 August 19, 2008 https://archive.today/20120913050458/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_583019.html?source=rss&feed=3 September 13, 2012 dead mdy-all However, the team failed to run the ball consistently and struggled on defense, losing the game 24–21. Ed Bouchette Steelers fall to Buffalo Bills, 24–21 http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08227/904445-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20110522082159/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08227/904445-66.stm dead May 22, 2011 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette August 14, 2008 August 19, 2008 "We fell short essentially in all three phases," stated coach Tomlin after the game. Scott Brown Steelers take step back in Toronto http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_582973.html?source=rss&feed=9 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review August 15, 2008 August 19, 2008 https://archive.today/20120907233752/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_582973.html?source=rss&feed=9 September 7, 2012 dead mdy-all 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. John Harris Steelers' defense looks ready to go http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_584646.html?source=rss&feed=3 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review August 24, 2008 August 24, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080828040227/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_584646.html?source=rss&feed=3 August 28, 2008 dead mdy-all The offense failed to score a touchdown, with Rashard Mendenhall fumbling twice. Scott Brown Steelers raise intensity against Vikings http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_584625.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review August 24, 2008 August 24, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080824174247/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_584625.html August 24, 2008 dead mdy-all Quarterback Byron Leftwich, who was signed to replace the injured Batch,Steelers sign Leftwich, Culpepper as QB fill-ins http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=444019 NFL Sporting News August 9, 2008 August 10, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080813012114/http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=444019 August 13, 2008 dead mdy Steelers looking at QB Leftwich https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=txsteelersleftwich&prov=st&type=lgns NFL Yahoo! Sports August 9, 2008 August 9, 2008 August 14, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080814132957/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=txsteelersleftwich&prov=st&type=lgns dead lead the team with 129 yards passing. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/boxscore?game_id=29821&displayPage=tab_box_score&season=2008&week=PRE3 NFL GameCenter: Pre-season Week 3 August 25, 2008 Box Score NFL August 23, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080828043539/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/boxscore?game_id=29821&displayPage=tab_box_score&season=2008&week=PRE3 August 28, 2008 dead mdy-all 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. Ed Bouchette Reed the only kick in offense http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08237/906742-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette August 24, 2008 August 24, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080826214403/http://post-gazette.com/pg/08237/906742-66.stm August 26, 2008 dead Entering their final pre-season game the Steelers had selected every starting player except the punter. Ray Fittipaldo Tonight last chance for some Steelers http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08241/907598-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20080828132515/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08241/907598-66.stm dead August 28, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette August 28, 2008 August 28, 2008 Carolina tied the game with 1:54 remaining in regulation, NFL GameCenter: Pre-season Week 4 http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/boxscore?game_id=29838&displayPage=tab_box_score&season=2008&week=PRE4&override=true Box Score NFL August 28, 2008 August 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080901154750/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/boxscore?game_id=29838&displayPage=tab_box_score&season=2008&week=PRE4&override=true September 1, 2008 dead mdy-all but rookie Dennis Dixon led the Steelers on a 47-yard drive, Scott Brown Steelers nip Panthers with last second field goal http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_585465.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review August 28, 2008 August 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080901202456/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_585465.html September 1, 2008 dead mdy-all which was capped with Reed kicking the game winning 43-yard field goal as time expired. Ed Bouchette It's a Reed-thin margin again http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08242/907939-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette August 29, 2008 August 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080901003947/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08242/907939-66.stm September 1, 2008 dead After the three point victory, Associated Press Reed kicks Steelers past Panthers http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/recap?game_id=29838&displayPage=tab_recap NFL August 29, 2008 August 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080901135105/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/recap?game_id=29838&displayPage=tab_recap September 1, 2008 live Tomlin stated, "It has been a pleasure working with this group of guys, but it is that time of year where we need to make tough decisions." The Steelers cut 22 players on August 30, to bring their roster to the required 53 player total. Gerry Dulac Reid, McBean among 22 cut from Steelers roster http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08244/908393-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette August 31, 2008 August 31, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081007084059/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08244/908393-66.stm?cmpid=sports.xml October 7, 2008 dead Scott Brown Steelers' Reid, Drummond among final cuts http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_585768.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review August 31, 2008 August 31, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080901142258/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_585768.html September 1, 2008 dead mdy-all The following day the Steelers signed nine players from their pre-season team to the practice squad. Ed Bouchette Nine join practice squad http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08245/908577-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 1, 2008 September 4, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080904011656/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08245/908577-66.stm September 4, 2008 dead Schedule Week Date Opponent Result Record Game Site NFL Recap 1 August 8 Philadelphia Eagles W 16–10 1–0 Heinz Field Summary 2 August 14 vs. Buffalo Bills L 21–24 1–1 Canada Rogers Centre (Toronto, Ontario) Summary 3 August 23 at Minnesota Vikings W 12–10 2–1 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Summary 4 August 28 Carolina Panthers W 19–16 3–1 Heinz Field Summary Regular season thumb|250px|Steelers captains line up before kickoff at Super Bowl XLIII Based on 2007 records, the Steelers boasted the NFL's most difficult schedule in 2008, Ed Bouchette Steelers 2008 schedule announced http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08106/873528-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette April 15, 2008 April 15, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080420090216/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08106/873528-66.stm April 20, 2008 dead Ed Bouchette Ed Bouchette on the Steelers: Penguins will learn success has a price http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08160/888352-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette June 8, 2008 June 8, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080610005523/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08160/888352-66.stm?cmpid=sports.xml June 10, 2008 dead with an opponent winning percentage of .598; https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3347716 Steelers, Colts have toughest 2008 schedules June 13, 2008 April 16, 2008 ESPN ten games were played against teams that finished 2007 with winning records. Standings NFL March 25, 2008 http://www.nfl.com/standings March 25, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080326220102/http://www.nfl.com/standings March 26, 2008 live 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. Mike Florio AFC North could produce a sub-.500 champion https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=afcnorthcouldproduceasub&prov=tsn&type=lgns Sporting News July 12, 2008 July 18, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080720014424/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=afcnorthcouldproduceasub&prov=tsn&type=lgns July 20, 2008 dead Pittsburgh's matchups included San Diego and New England, who each won their division in the 2007 season. The Steelers played five nationally televised primetime games,Steelers Release 2008 Regular Season Schedule http://news.steelers.com/article/88377/ Steelers.com April 15, 2008 April 16, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080419004317/http://news.steelers.com/article/88377/ April 19, 2008 dead mdy the maximum allowed number by the NFL. Steelers get maximum number of prime time games http://www.vindy.com/news/2008/apr/15/steelers-get-maximum-number-of-prime-time-games/ Vindy.com April 15, 2008 April 18, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080506124336/http://www.vindy.com/news/2008/apr/15/steelers-get-maximum-number-of-prime-time-games/ May 6, 2008 live Entering the first week of the season, players voted Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward, James Farrior, and Jeff Reed team captains. Ed Bouchette Steelers Notebook: Team elects Roethlisberger, Reed to join list of captains http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08246/908701-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20080902204544/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08246/908701-66.stm dead September 2, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 2, 2008 September 2, 2008 Scott Brown Roethlisberger among four team captains http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_585950.html?source=rss&feed=9 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review September 2, 2008 September 2, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080907011931/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_585950.html?source=rss&feed=9 September 7, 2008 dead mdy-all Farrior, James Harrison, and Troy Polamalu were voted to represent the Steelers at the 2009 Pro Bowl. Ed Bouchette Steelers' Polamalu, Harrison, Farrior only picks for Pro Bowl https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/2008/12/17/Steelers-Polamalu-Harrison-Farrior-only-picks-for-Pro-Bowl/stories/200812170200 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 17, 2008 December 18, 2008Three Steelers Selected to the 2009 Pro Bowl Squad http://news.steelers.com/article/101166/ PittsburghSteelers.com December 16, 2008 December 18, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081220080544/http://news.steelers.com/article/101166/ December 20, 2008 dead mdy James Harrison set the Steelers' franchise single-season record for sacks, surpassing Mike Merriweather's previous record of 15 sacks in 1984. Harrison also became the first undrafted player to win the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year Award. Associated Press Harrison 1st undrafted AP Defensive Player of Year https://www.espn.com/espn/wire?section=nfl&id=3812898 ESPN January 6, 2009 January 6, 2009 He was the fifth Steeler to win the award—the first since Rod Woodson in 1993. Associated Press Harrison has death grip on defensive award https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3811266 ESPN January 5, 2009 January 5, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090204094211/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3811266 February 4, 2009 live Harrison and Polamalu were also voted to the NFL's All-Pro team. Polamalu, Harrison named to AP All-Pro team http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/breaking/s_606432.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review January 9, 2009 January 9, 2009 https://archive.today/20120910062736/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/breaking/s_606432.html September 10, 2012 dead mdy-all The Steelers' defense tied the 1973 Los Angeles Rams record by holding 14 consecutive opponents under 300 yards of total offense. Associated Press Steelers ride second straight fourth-quarter rally to back-to-back division titles http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281214033 Curtain Call ESPN December 14, 2008 December 27, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081218114217/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281214033 December 18, 2008 dead The defense finished ranked first in the league in total and passing yards given up and second in rushing yards.Too early for this dominant Steelers defense to take Curtain call https://web.archive.org/web/20100209200950/http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/story?id=09000d5d80e66893&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true&icampaign=SB43_3column_3 February 9, 2010 http://www.nfl.com/stats/team?seasonId=2008&seasonType=REG&Submit=Go Defensive Game Stats December 29, 2008 Statistics NFL December 28, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081223034833/http://www.nfl.com/stats/team?seasonId=2008&seasonType=REG&Submit=Go December 23, 2008 liveAlan Robinson Playoffs await dominating Steelers defense https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-steelers-defense&prov=ap&type=lgns Yahoo! Sports December 29, 2008 January 2, 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110604035828/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-steelers-defense June 4, 2011 For the fifth time in his career Hines Ward received for over 1,000 yards throughout the season. Scott Brown Ward tops 1,000-yard mark in win http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_604806.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review December 29, 2008 December 29, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20090203214432/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_604806.html February 3, 2009 dead mdy-all The team's offense ranked 22nd in overall offense, 17th in passing, and 23rd in rushing. http://www.nfl.com/stats/categorystats?tabSeq=2&offensiveStatisticCategory=GAME_STATS&conference=ALL&role=TM&season=2008&seasonType=REG&d-447263-s=TOTAL_YARDS_GAME_AVG&d-447263-o=2&d-447263-n=1 Offensive Game Stats December 29, 2008 Statistics NFL December 28, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081229112136/http://www.nfl.com/stats/categorystats?tabSeq=2&offensiveStatisticCategory=GAME_STATS&conference=ALL&role=TM&season=2008&seasonType=REG&d-447263-s=TOTAL_YARDS_GAME_AVG&d-447263-o=2&d-447263-n=1 December 29, 2008 live Rashard Mendenhall was the team's only rookie to start a game; the fewest rookie starts of any team in the league.http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d80f5dc39&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true Draft buzz: Two offensive tackles separating themselves from the pack Kirwan Pat March 22, 2009 NFL March 23, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090322174628/http://www.nfl.com/draft/story?id=09000d5d80f5dc39&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true March 22, 2009 dead mdy-all Schedule Week Date Opponent Result Record Game Site NFL Recap 1 September 7 Houston Texans W 38–17 1–0 Heinz Field Summary 2 September 14 at Cleveland Browns W 10–6 2–0 Cleveland Browns Stadium Summary 3 September 21 at Philadelphia Eagles L 6–15 2–1 Lincoln Financial Field Summary 4 September 29 Baltimore Ravens W 23–20 (OT) 3–1 Heinz Field Summary 5 October 5 at Jacksonville Jaguars W 26–21 4–1 Jacksonville Municipal Stadium Summary 6 Bye week 7 October 19 at Cincinnati Bengals W 38–10 5–1 Paul Brown Stadium Summary 8 October 26 New York Giants L 14–21 5–2 Heinz Field Summary 9 November 3 at Washington Redskins W 23–6 6–2 FedExField Summary 10 November 9 Indianapolis Colts L 20–24 6–3 Heinz Field Summary 11 November 16 San Diego Chargers W 11–10 7–3 Heinz Field Summary 12 November 20 Cincinnati Bengals W 27–10 8–3 Heinz Field Summary 13 November 30 at New England Patriots W 33–10 9–3 Gillette Stadium Summary 14 December 7 Dallas Cowboys W 20–13 10–3 Heinz Field Summary 15 December 14 at Baltimore Ravens W 13–9 11–3 M&T Bank Stadium Summary 16 December 21 at Tennessee Titans L 14–31 11–4 LP Field Summary 17 December 28 Cleveland Browns W 31–0 12–4 Heinz Field Summary Note: Intra-divisional opponents are in bold text. 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. Through 2008, Pittsburgh is the only team to have won the AFC North four times, since its inception prior to the 2002 NFL season.The Steelers won the AFC North during the 2002, 2004, 2007, and 2008 NFL seasons. Entering the 2008 season, the Steelers were chosen to win the division by sportswriter Ron Borges, Ron Borges Ron Borges AFC North preview: Anticipating two-horse race http://www.nfl.com/kickoff/story?id=09000d5d80a43f06&template=with-video&confirm=true NFL August 28, 2008 August 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080829153920/http://www.nfl.com/kickoff/story?id=09000d5d80a43f06&template=with-video&confirm=true August 29, 2008 dead mdy-all as well as nine of 13 analysts interviewed by ESPN.com. Pittsburgh Steelers (Consensus division finish: 1st) https://www.espn.com/nfl/preview08/team?team=pit ESPN August 28, 2008 August 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080831041142/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/preview08/team?team=pit August 31, 2008 live Four NFL.com analysts predicted that the Steelers would finish with a 10–6 record. Ron Borges Ron Borges Steelers preview: Face challenge from long-time rival http://www.nfl.com/kickoff/story?id=09000d5d80a440b2&template=with-video&confirm=true NFL August 25, 2008 August 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080829153935/http://www.nfl.com/kickoff/story?id=09000d5d80a440b2&template=with-video&confirm=true August 29, 2008 dead mdy-all The Steelers finished the regular season with a record of 12–4, going undefeated against opponents in the AFC North and winning 12 games for the fourth season since 1979.Associated Press Browns game matters to Steelers' Tomlin – really http://www.lancastereaglegazette.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008812240321 Lancaster Eagle-Gazette December 24, 2008 December 27, 2008 June 2016 medicmedic The team clinched the second seed in the AFC for the playoffs and received a bye the first week of the post-season. Ed Bouchette Steelers Notebook: Sacks record doesn't ease sting of loss http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08357/936784-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20090207135313/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08357/936784-66.stm dead February 7, 2009 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 22, 2008 December 22, 2008 The Baltimore Ravens finished at second place in the AFC North with an 11–5 record, clinching a playoff seed as an AFC wild card. David Ginsburg Ravens enter playoffs with 27–7 win over Jaguars https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap;_ylt=AtB00cLtXvNqQlkIVsFz2b5DubYF?gid=20081228033&prov=ap Yahoo! Sports December 28, 2008 December 29, 2008 The Cincinnati Bengals finished 4–11–1, winning their final three games of the season. Joe Kay Bengals beat Chiefs 16–6 for third straight win https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20081228004 Yahoo! Sports December 28, 2008 December 29, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081231085232/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20081228004 December 31, 2008 live The Cleveland Browns finished in the AFC North's fourth position at 4–12; the team fired head coach Romeo Crennel after the season. Crennel fired after Browns' 4-win season https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3797518 ESPN December 29, 2008 January 15, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090126005955/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3797518 January 26, 2009 live Game summaries Week 1: vs. Houston Texans Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 1: Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game Summary September 7 1:00 p.m. EDT Texans 0 3 0 14 Steelers 7 14 14 3 Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 64,001 Mostly cloudy, 74 °F °C on Terry McAulay CBS Gus Johnson and Randy Cross NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights First quarter PIT – Willie Parker 7-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 5:44. Steelers 7–0. Drive: 8 plays, 52 yards, 4:48. Second quarter PIT – Willie Parker 13-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 11:10. Steelers 14–0. Drive: 11 plays, 79 yards, 6:03. PIT – Hines Ward 13-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (Jeff Reed kick), 9:03. Steelers 21–0. Drive: 2 plays, 26 yards, 0:28. HOU – Kris Brown 34-yard field goal, 4:29. Steelers 21–3. Drive: 4 plays, −4 yards, 2:06. Third quarter PIT – Willie Parker 4-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 9:10. Steelers 28–3. Drive: 10 plays, 68 yards, 5:50. PIT – Hines Ward 16-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (Jeff Reed kick), 2:04. Steelers 35–3. Drive: 9 plays, 80 yards, 5:36. Fourth quarter HOU – Kevin Walter 14-yard from Matt Schaub (Kris Brown kick), 9:00. Steelers 35–10. Drive: 8 plays, 57 yards, 4:14. PIT – Jeff Reed 44-yard field goal, 5:24. Steelers 38–10. Drive: 4 plays, 2 yards, 0:54. HOU – Matt Schaub 4-yard run (Kris Brown kick), 1:14. Steelers 38–17. Drive: 10 plays, 74 yards, 4:10. Top passers HOU – Matt Schaub – 25/33, 202 yards, TD, 2 INT PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 13/14, 137 yards, 2 TD Top rushers HOU – Steve Slaton – 13 rushes, 43 yards PIT – Willie Parker – 25 rushes, 138 yards, 3 TD Top receivers HOU – Andre Johnson – 10 receptions, 112 yards PIT – Hines Ward – 6 receptions, 76 yards, 2 TD 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 for Houston. Pittsburgh led the game 21–3 as time expired on the first half.http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29536&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG1&override=true Week One GameCenter September 8, 2008 Play-by-play NFL September 7, 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20080909192645/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29536&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG1&override=true September 9, 2008 http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29536/PIT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary September 8, 2008 Houston Texans At Pittsburgh Steelers NFL September 7, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080916125138/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29536/PIT_Gamebook.pdf September 16, 2008 live In the second half, Parker scored his third touchdown of the game—surpassing his touchdown total for the entire 2007 season http://www.nfl.com/players/careerstats?id=PAR468944 Willie Parker September 8, 2008 Career Stats NFL —and was named the AFC offensive player of the week for his performance. Ed Bouchette Steelers' Parker named AFC offensive player of the week http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08254/910983-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20080912025708/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08254/910983-66.stm dead September 12, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 10, 2008 September 11, 2008 Scott Brown Parker earns AFC honors http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_587646.html?source=rss&feed=3 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review September 11, 2008 September 12, 2008 https://archive.today/20120910050417/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_587646.html?source=rss&feed=3 September 10, 2012 dead mdy-all 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 starting out 1–0. Week 2: at Cleveland Browns Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 2: Pittsburgh Steelers at Cleveland Browns – Game Summary September 14 8:15 p.m. EDT Steelers 0 7 3 0 Browns 0 0 3 3 Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio 73,048 Cloudy, 80 °F °C on Tony Corrente NBC Al Michaels, John Madden, and Andrea Kremer NFL Game summary, NFL GameDay highlights First quarter No scoring plays Second quarter PIT – Hines Ward 11-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (Jeff Reed kick), 6:29. Steelers 7–0. Drive: 12 plays, 77 yards, 6:29. Third quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 48-yard field goal, 7:58. Steelers 10–0. Drive: 5 plays, 54 yards, 2:18. CLE – Phil Dawson 31-yard field goal, 1:25. Steelers 10–3. Drive: 12 plays, 57 yards, 6:33. Fourth quarter CLE – Phil Dawson 38-yard field goal, 3:21. Steelers 10–6. Drive: 14 plays, 60 yards, 7:29. Top passers PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 13/20, 179 yards, TD CLE – Derek Anderson – 18/32, 166 yards, 2 INT Top rushers PIT – Willie Parker – 28 rushes, 105 yards CLE – Jamal Lewis – 19 rushes, 38 yards Top receivers PIT – Santonio Holmes – 5 receptions, 94 yards CLE – Kellen Winslow II – 7 receptions, 55 yards The Steelers entered their first matchup with the Cleveland Browns having won 15 of the last 16 games between the two teams.Teresa Varley Rivalry remains strong http://news.steelers.com/article/95938/ PittsburghSteelers.com September 12, 2008 September 14, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080913064434/http://news.steelers.com/article/95938/ September 13, 2008 dead mdy Ben Roethlisberger started the game despite missing practice time during the week due to a shoulder injury suffered in Week One. Gerry Dulac Steelers Notebook: Roethlisberger limited in practice, should play http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08256/911635-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20080913164115/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08256/911635-66.stm dead September 13, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 12, 2008 September 12, 2008 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. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29558&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG2&override=true Week Two GameCenter September 15, 2008 Play-by-play NFL September 14, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080919080835/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29558&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG2&override=true September 19, 2008 dead mdy-all http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29558/CLV_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary September 15, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers At Cleveland Browns NFL September 15, 2008 A 48-yard pass from Roethlisberger to Santonio Holmes and a 48-yard field goal from Jeff Reed on the team's second drive of the second half 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 a fourth down stop, Cleveland's offense took over with 26 seconds remaining, but failed to gain yardage as time expired. 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. With the win the Steelers improved to 2–0 and led the AFC North by 1/2 a game ahead of the Ravens. Associated Press Sore shoulder doesn't bother Roethlisberger; Steelers hold Browns without a TD http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=280914005 Fast Facts ESPN September 14, 2008 September 15, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080918055642/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=280914005 September 18, 2008 dead Week 3: at Philadelphia Eagles Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 3: Pittsburgh Steelers at Philadelphia Eagles – Game Summary September 21 4:15 p.m. EDT Steelers 3 3 0 0 Eagles 0 10 0 5 Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 69,144 Mostly sunny, 79 °F °C on Walt Anderson CBS Jim Nantz and Phil Simms NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights First quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 37-yard field goal, 2:51. Steelers 3–0. Drive: 12 plays, 61 yards, 6:39. Second quarter PHI – Correll Buckhalter 20-yard pass from Donovan McNabb (David Akers kick), 9:23. Eagles 7–3. Drive: 13 plays, 85 yards, 8:28. PHI – David Akers 31-yard field goal, 2:36. Eagles 10–3. Drive: 7 plays, 32 yards, 3:18. PIT – Jeff Reed 53-yard field goal, 0:13. Eagles 10–6. Drive: 6 plays, 13 yards, 1:24. Third quarter No scoring plays Fourth quarter PHI – Ben Roethlisberger intentional grounding penalty in end zone, 8:00. Eagles 12–6. PHI – David Akers 31-yard field goal, 2:26. Eagles 15–6. Drive: 4 plays, 5 yards, 1:03. Top passers PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 13/25, 131 yards, INT PHI – Donovan McNabb – 24/35, 196 yards, TD, INT Top rushers PIT – Willie Parker – 13 rushes, 20 yards PHI – Correll Buckhalter – 10 rushes, 43 yards Top receivers PIT – Heath Miller – 4 receptions, 63 yards PHI – Hank Baskett – 8 receptions, 85 yards 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.Teresa Varley Rough outing for Roethlisberger http://news.steelers.com/article/96372/ Steelers.com September 23, 2008 September 23, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080925005331/http://news.steelers.com/article/96372/ September 25, 2008 dead mdy 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.http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29573&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG3&override=true Week Three GameCenter September 23, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL September 21, 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20080924004513/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29573&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG3&override=true September 24, 2008 http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29573/PHI_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary September 23, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers At Philadelphia Eagles NFL September 21, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081012232529/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29573/PHI_Gamebook.pdf October 12, 2008 live A third quarter diving Troy Polamalu interception, on Kevin Kolb's first NFL pass, was named a "Can't Miss Play" by NFL Network. http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d80afdad2 Polamalu INT September 23, 2008 Sprint Can't Miss Plays NFL Network September 21, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080930063500/http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d80afdad2 September 30, 2008 live 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. Roethlisberger was forced to leave the game after his hand was stepped on in the final quarter. Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians took responsibility for the offense's performance. Scott Brown Arians accepts blame for struggles against Eagles http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_590175.html?source=rss&feed=3 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review September 26, 2008 September 26, 2008 https://archive.today/20120907032717/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_590175.html?source=rss&feed=3 September 7, 2012 dead mdy-all "Anybody who wants anybody to blame for Philadelphia, you just blame me," Arians stated, "and then we can get ready for Baltimore." Gerry Dulac Arians: I'll take blame for Philadelphia fiasco http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08270/915226-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 26, 2008 September 26, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080926223931/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08270/915226-66.stm September 26, 2008 dead This marked the Steelers 7th loss in Philadelphia since 1965. Week 4: vs. Baltimore Ravens Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 4: Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game Summary September 29, 2008 8:30 p.m. EDT Ravens 3 10 0 7 0 Steelers 3 0 14 3 3 Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 64,038 Clear, 63 °F °C on Gene Steratore ESPN Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Tony Kornheiser, Michele Tafoya, and Suzy Kolber NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights First quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 49-yard field goal, 6:44. Steelers 3–0. Drive: 11 plays, 40 yards, 6:41. BAL – Matt Stover 33-yard field goal, 0:18. Tied 3–3. Drive: 10 plays, 33 yards, 4:51. Second quarter BAL – Matt Stover 20-yard field goal, 3:48. Ravens 6–3. Drive: 11 plays, 47 yards, 5:39. BAL – Daniel Wilcox 4-yard pass from Joe Flacco (Matt Stover kick), 0:17. Ravens 13–3. Drive: 6 plays, 31 yards, 1:35. Third quarter PIT – Santonio Holmes 38-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (Jeff Reed kick), 4:09. Ravens 13–10. Drive: 4 plays, 59 yards, 1:40. PIT – LaMarr Woodley 7-yard fumble return (Jeff Reed kick), 3:54. Steelers 17–13. Fourth quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 19-yard field goal, 9:19. Steelers 20–13. Drive: 7 plays, 60 yards, 4:44. BAL – Le'Ron McClain 2-yard run (Matt Stover kick), 4:02. Tied 20–20. Drive: 9 plays, 76 yards, 5:17. Overtime PIT – Jeff Reed 46-yard field goal, 8:55. Steelers 23–20. Drive: 7 plays, 29 yards, 3:56. Top passers BAL – Joe Flacco – 16/31, 192 yards, TD PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 14/24, 191 yards, TD, INT Top rushers BAL – Le'Ron McClain – 16 rushes, 63 yards, TD PIT – Rashard Mendenhall – 9 rushes, 30 yards Top receivers BAL – Derrick Mason – 8 receptions, 137 yards PIT – Santonio Holmes – 3 receptions, 61 yards, TD left|thumb|The Steelers' win against the Ravens was the team's 14th consecutive Monday night win at home. Donning their throwback uniforms,Teresa Varley http://news.steelers.com/article/96523/ Steelers looking forward to home field advantage September 26, 2008 September 26, 2008 Steelers.com https://web.archive.org/web/20080927140549/http://news.steelers.com/article/96523/ September 27, 2008 dead mdy 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.Teresa Varley Parker one of three starters to miss Ravens game http://news.steelers.com/article/96480/ Steelers.com September 23, 2008 September 23, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080925222411/http://news.steelers.com/article/96480/ September 25, 2008 dead mdy Ed Bouchette Steelers Parker, Hampton injured, won't play Monday http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08267/914374-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20080924101316/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08267/914374-66.stm dead September 24, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 23, 2008 September 23, 2008 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 Associated Press Steelers will be without RB Parker, DT Hampton against rival Ravens https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3604561 ESPN September 23, 2008 September 23, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20080924233317/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3604561 September 24, 2008 live—left the game in the third quarter with a season-ending shoulder injury. Associated Press Simmons, Mendenhall suffer season-ending injuries http://www.nfl.com/news/story;jsessionid=757598AE57696FB023CE71D128201739?id=09000d5d80b3f4dc&template=with-video&confirm=true NFL September 29, 2008 September 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081002034248/http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80b3f4dc&template=with-video&confirm=true October 2, 2008 live Ed Bouchette Steelers Notebook: Top pick, guard on IR, to miss rest of season http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08274/916184-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette September 30, 2008 September 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081001174342/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08274/916184-66.stm October 1, 2008 dead On Pittsburgh's 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.http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29588&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG4&override=true Week Four GameCenter September 30, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL September 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081002042115/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29588&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG4&override=true October 2, 2008 dead mdy http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29588/PIT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary September 30, 2008 Baltimore Ravens At Pittsburgh Steelers NFL September 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081031014108/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29588/PIT_Gamebook.pdf October 31, 2008 live 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. Reed was named the NFL's special teams player of the week. Gerry Dulac Steelers sign Russell; kicker Reed named player of week http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08275/916465-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20081003190445/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08275/916465-66.stm dead October 3, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 1, 2008 October 1, 2008 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. Associated Press Steelers climb back, hang on for OT victory as Ravens lose first of season http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=280929023 ESPN September 29, 2008 September 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081002162919/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=280929023 October 2, 2008 dead Week 5: at Jacksonville Jaguars Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 5: Pittsburgh Steelers at Jacksonville Jaguars – Game Summary October 5 8:15 p.m. EDT Steelers 7 13 0 6 Jaguars 14 0 0 7 Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida 65,908 Cloudy, 73 °F °C on Ron Winter NBC Al Michaels, John Madden & Andrea Kremer NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights, NFL Game of the Week presentation First quarter JAX – Rashean Mathis 72-yard interception return (Josh Scobee kick), 12:49. Jaguars 7–0. PIT – Heath Miller 1-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (Jeff Reed kick), 5:18. Tied 7–7. Drive: 12 plays, 42 yards, 7:31. JAX – Maurice Jones-Drew 1-yard run (Josh Scobee kick), 2:27. Jaguars 14–7. Drive: 7 plays, 74 yards, 2:51. Second quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 38-yard field goal, 12:38. Jaguars 14–10. Drive: 11 plays, 58 yards, 4:49. PIT – Nate Washington 48-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (Jeff Reed kick), 9:20. Steelers 17–14. Drive: 4 plays, 82 yards, 1:57. PIT – Jeff Reed 23-yard field goal, 0:45. Steelers 20–14. Drive: 10 plays, 66 yards, 2:07. Third quarter No scoring plays Fourth quarter JAX – Marcedes Lewis 24-yard pass from David Garrard (Josh Scobee kick), 14:05. Jaguars 21–20. Drive: 6 plays, 76 yards, 3:13. PIT – Hines Ward 8-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (pass failed), 1:53. Steelers 26–21. Drive: 11 plays, 77 yards, 4:40. Top passers PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 26/41, 309 yards, 3 TD, INT JAX – David Garrard – 18/32, 200 yards, TD Top rushers PIT – Mewelde Moore – 17 rushes, 99 yards JAX – Fred Taylor – 10 rushes, 19 yards Top receivers PIT – Nate Washington – 6 receptions, 94 yards, TD JAX – Mike Sims-Walker – 6 receptions, 107 yards 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. http://www.profootballhof.com/ThrowbackGOW_PIT_at_JAC.jsp Week 5 – Steelers at Jaguars October 2, 2008 Throwback Game of the Week NFL October 2, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081003185222/http://www.profootballhof.com/ThrowbackGOW_PIT_at_JAC.jsp October 3, 2008 dead mdy-all On the Steelers opening drive, Roethlisberger—who missed practice time during the week due to injections for his shoulder Gerry Dulac Big Ben doesn't practice again http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08276/916891-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20081003133245/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08276/916891-66.stm dead October 3, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 2, 2008 October 2, 2008—was intercepted by Rashean Mathis who returned the ball 72 yards for a touchdown. Pittsburgh responded by driving 71 yards, with Heath Miller receiving 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. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29601&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG5&override=true Week Five GameCenter October 5, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL October 5, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081009100518/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29601&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG5&override=true October 9, 2008 dead mdy-all http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29601/JAX_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary October 5, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers At Jacksonville Jaguars NFL October 5, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081031103409/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29601/JAX_Gamebook.pdf October 31, 2008 live 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. Roethlisberger received the AFC offensive player of the week award for his 309-yard, 3 touchdown pass performance, despite having an injured throwing shoulder.Teresa Varley Roethlisberger AFC Offensive Player of the Week http://news.steelers.com/article/97361/ Steelers.com October 8, 2008 October 8, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081011021304/http://news.steelers.com/article/97361/ October 11, 2008 dead mdy The NFL selected the game as the league's Week Five Game of the Week. October 10, 2008 Week 5: Pittsburgh vs. Jacksonville Game of the Week http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d80b78497 Television production National Football League Jacksonville, Florida October 10, 2008 Week 6: Bye Week The Steelers used their bye week to rest injured players including Brett Keisel, Willie Parker, Jeff Reed, and Ben Roethlisberger.F. Dale Lolley Steelers getting healthy as Parker, Keisel return http://www.observer-reporter.com/OR/Story/10-8-Steelers-returning-to-health https://archive.today/20130130193831/http://www.observer-reporter.com/OR/Story/10-8-Steelers-returning-to-health dead January 30, 2013 Observer-Reporter October 8, 2008 October 8, 2008 Ed Bouchette Injury list could trim with help of open date http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08282/918208-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 8, 2008 October 8, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081011074016/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08282/918208-66.stm October 11, 2008 dead 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. Teresa Varley Saying thanks to true heroes http://news.steelers.com/article/97258/ PittsburghSteelers.com October 8, 2008 October 8, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081011021259/http://news.steelers.com/article/97258/ October 11, 2008 dead mdy-all 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." Karen Price Steelers host wounded vets at Heinz Field http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_592163.html Pittsburgh Tribune-Review October 8, 2008 October 8, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081009173046/http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_592163.html October 9, 2008 dead mdy-all Week 7: at Cincinnati Bengals Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 7: Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals – Game Summary October 19 1:00 p.m. EDT Steelers 10 0 7 21 Bengals 0 7 3 0 Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio 65,860 Sunny, 56 °F °C on Ed Hochuli CBS Kevin Harlan and Rich Gannon NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights Willie Parker was expected to return after missing two games, but aggravated his knee injury during a weekday practice and missed the game. Gerry Dulac Parker won't play in Sunday's Steelers game http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08291/920743-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20081019203526/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08291/920743-66.stm dead October 19, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 17, 2008 October 17, 2008 Pittsburgh received the opening kickoff and drove 75 yards to open the scoring 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 within three points of the Steelers, who added a field goal from Jeff Reed. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29620&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG7&override=true Week Seven GameCenter October 19, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL October 19, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081020223650/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29620&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG7&override=true October 20, 2008 dead mdy-all http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29620/CIN_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary October 19, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers At Cincinnati Bengals NFL October 19, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081031093147/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29620/CIN_Gamebook.pdf October 31, 2008 live 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 Roethlisberger connected with Nate Washington for a 50-yard touchdown pass. Pittsburgh's Moore scored his third touchdown of the day—his second rushing—and Hines Ward's 16-yard touchdown reception gave the Steelers 31 points to the Bengals' ten. Moore finished the game with 120 yards rushing, while Santonio Holmes lead the Steelers with 89 receiving yards. Week 8: vs. New York Giants Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 8: New York Giants at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game Summary October 26 4:15 p.m. EDT Giants 3 6 0 12 Steelers 7 0 7 0 Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 64,991 Sunny, 59 °F °C on Bill Carollo Fox Dick Stockton, Troy Aikman, and Pam Oliver NFL Game summary, NFL Network highlights Willie Parker missed his fourth game due to a knee injury. Gerry Dulac Steelers' Parker likely a scratch against Giants http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08298/922566-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20081026050932/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08298/922566-66.stm dead October 26, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette October 24, 2008 October 24, 2008 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. Jahmal Corner Greg Stutchbury Steelers place Holmes on inactive list https://www.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idUSTRE49O0KE20081025?feedType=RSS&feedName=sportsNews Reuters October 25, 2008 October 25, 2008 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. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?game_id=29641&season=2008&displayPage=tab_gamecenter Week Eight GameCenter October 26, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL October 26, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081025034258/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?game_id=29641&season=2008&displayPage=tab_gamecenter October 25, 2008 live http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29641/PIT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary October 26, 2008 New York Giants At Pittsburgh Steelers NFL October 26, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081031104446/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29641/PIT_Gamebook.pdf October 31, 2008 live 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 quarter 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. Week 9: at Washington Redskins Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 9: Pittsburgh Steelers at Washington Redskins – Game Summary November 3, 2008 8:30 p.m. EST Steelers 0 10 6 7 Redskins 6 0 0 0 FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland 90,512 Cloudy, 51 °F °C on Carl Cheffers ESPN Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Tony Kornheiser, Michele Tafoya, and Suzy Kolber NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights 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 at half-time.Associated Press Obama, McCain on what to change in sports https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-mccain-obama-mnf&prov=ap&type=lgns Yahoo! Sports November 3, 2008 November 4, 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110604034913/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-mccain-obama-mnf June 4, 2011 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. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29657&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG9&override=true Week Nine GameCenter November 3, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL November 3, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081209093922/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29657&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG9&override=true December 9, 2008 dead mdy-all http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29657/WAS_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary November 3, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers At Washington Redskins NFL November 3, 2008 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. Week 10: vs. Indianapolis Colts Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 10: Indianapolis Colts at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game Summary November 9 4:15 p.m. EST Colts 7 7 3 7 Steelers 7 10 0 3 Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 64,042 Cloudy, 38 °F °C on John Parry CBS Jim Nantz and Phil Simms NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights 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.http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29668&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG10&override=true Week Ten GameCenter November 9, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL November 9, 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20081112092509/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29668&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG10&override=true November 12, 2008 http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29668/PIT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary November 9, 2008 Indianapolis Colts At Pittsburgh Steelers NFL November 9, 2008 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 to the Colts' 27 yard line, but a 4th down Hail Mary attempt from Roethlisberger was intercepted in the end zone as time expired. The loss ended the Steelers 12-game home winning streak against the Colts, losing to them for the first time since the 1968 season.Indianapolis Colts vs. Pittsburgh Steelers https://www.footballdb.com/teams/nfl/indianapolis-colts/teamvsteam?opp=25&ha=A The Football Database Week 11: vs. San Diego Chargers Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 11: San Diego Chargers at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game Summary November 16 4:15 p.m. EST Chargers 7 0 0 3 Steelers 0 5 3 3 Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 62,051 Snow, 32 °F °C on Scott Green CBS Jim Nantz and Phil Simms NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights Pittsburgh entered week eleven with starters having missed 31 games due to injuries. Ed Bouchette Steelers: Injuries are never an excuse, but ... http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08321/928377-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20110522110355/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08321/928377-66.stm dead May 22, 2011 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette November 16, 2008 November 17, 2008 The San Diego Chargers opened the scoring with the game's only touchdown, a three-yard LaDainian Tomlinson run, and held a 7–0 lead 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 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.http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29685&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG11&override=true Week Eleven GameCenter November 16, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL November 16, 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090204225441/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29685&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG11&override=true February 4, 2009 http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29685/PIT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary November 16, 2008 San Diego Chargers At Pittsburgh Steelers NFL November 16, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081207110200/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29685/PIT_Gamebook.pdf December 7, 2008 live 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. 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.http://post-gazette.com/pg/08322/928592-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20110718211439/http://post-gazette.com/pg/08322/928592-66.stm dead July 18, 2011 Steelers Notebook: Official admits mistake on play Ed Bouchette November 17, 2008 November 17, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Associated Press Referee says officials errantly voided Steelers TD http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80c930b0&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true NFL November 17, 2008 November 17, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081209074713/http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80c930b0&template=with-video-with-comments&confirm=true December 9, 2008 live 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. http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/27768483/ Errant call in Steelers-Chargers affects betting November 17, 2008 NBC Sports November 17, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081205094715/http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/27768483/ December 5, 2008 dead The game was the first regular season game in NFL history to end with a final score of 11–10. Alan Robinson Steelers beat Chargers in NFL's first 11–10 game https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20081116023&prov=ap Yahoo! Sports November 17, 2008 November 17, 2008 Week 12: vs. Cincinnati Bengals Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 12: Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game Summary November 20 8:15 p.m. EST Bengals 7 0 0 3 Steelers 0 10 10 7 Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 59,854 Snow, 30 °F °C on Ron Winter NFLN Bob Papa and Cris Collinsworth NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights 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.http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29688&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG12&override=true Week Twelve GameCenter November 20, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL November 20, 2008 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20090204154007/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29688&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG12&override=true February 4, 2009 http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29688/PIT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary November 20, 2008 Cincinnati Bengals At Pittsburgh Steelers NFL November 20, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081203090607/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29688/PIT_Gamebook.pdf December 3, 2008 live 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. Week 13: at New England Patriots Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 13: Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots – Game Summary November 30 4:15 p.m. EST Steelers 3 7 13 10 Patriots 7 3 0 0 Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, Massachusetts 68,756 Rain, 34 °F °C on Ed Hochuli CBS Greg Gumbel and Dan Dierdorf NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights 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. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29716&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG13&override=true Week Thirteen GameCenter November 30, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL November 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081203061905/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29716&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG13&override=true December 3, 2008 dead mdy-all http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29716/NE_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary November 30, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots NFL November 30, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081209141049/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29716/NE_Gamebook.pdf December 9, 2008 live 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. With the win, the Steelers improved to 9–3. This would mark their last win in Foxborough until 2025. Week 14: vs. Dallas Cowboys Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 14: Dallas Cowboys at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game Summary December 7 4:15 p.m. EST Cowboys 0 3 10 0 Steelers 0 3 0 17 Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 60,594 Partly cloudy, 18 °F °C on Alberto Riveron Fox Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, and Pam Oliver NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights The Dallas Cowboys and the Steelers 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. Ed Bouchette Steelers Notebook: Harrison ties sack record, but wants more http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08343/933652-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20081210113359/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08343/933652-66.stm dead December 10, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 8, 2008 December 8, 2008 The Steelers scored first on a 24-yard field goal from Jeff Reed with 2:44 remaining in the second quarter. The Cowboys converted a 44-yard field goal as time expired on the first half to tie the game at 3–3. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29733&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG14&override=true Week Fourteen GameCenter December 7, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL December 7, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081210015537/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29733&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG14&override=true December 10, 2008 dead mdy-all http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29733/PIT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary December 7, 2008 Dallas Cowboys at Pittsburgh Steelers NFL December 7, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081221024317/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29733/PIT_Gamebook.pdf December 21, 2008 live 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 2:04 remaining. Two plays later 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. Week 15: at Baltimore Ravens Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 15: Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens – Game Summary December 14 4:15 p.m. EST Steelers 0 3 0 10 Ravens 0 6 3 0 M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Maryland 71,502 Mostly cloudy, 45 °F °C on Walt Coleman CBS Jim Nantz and Phil Simms NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights 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.Associated Press Top defenses square off for AFC North supremacy http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/preview?game_id=29738&displayPage=tab_preview&season=2008&week=REG15 NFL December 11, 2008 December 11, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081212142352/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/preview?game_id=29738&displayPage=tab_preview&season=2008&week=REG15 December 12, 2008 live Both teams were held scoreless before a record crowd at M&T Bank Stadium Ed Bouchette Steelers Notebook: Game ends with some spit and a shove Pittsburgh Post-Gazette http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08350/935281-66.stm December 15, 2008 December 15, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081218025556/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08350/935281-66.stm?cmpid=steelers.xml December 18, 2008 dead 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. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29738&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG15&override=true Week Fifteen GameCenter December 14, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL December 14, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081217022603/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29738&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG15&override=true December 17, 2008 dead mdy-all http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29738/BLT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary December 14, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens NFL December 14, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20090117113749/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29738/BLT_Gamebook.pdf January 17, 2009 live With the victory the Steelers won their second consecutive AFC North title and clinched a first round bye Associated Press Another strong finish allows Steelers to take AFC North crown http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/recap?game_id=29738&displayPage=tab_recap&season=2008&week=REG15 NFL December 14, 2008 December 15, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081217103716/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/recap?game_id=29738&displayPage=tab_recap&season=2008&week=REG15 December 17, 2008 dead mdy-all Gene Cherry Ed Osmond Steelers claim AFC North title with dramatic win https://www.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idUSTRE4BE07620081215?feedType=RSS&feedName=sportsNews Reuters December 14, 2008 December 15, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081216012117/https://www.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idUSTRE4BE07620081215?feedType=RSS&feedName=sportsNews December 16, 2008 live and became the first AFC franchise to amass 550 wins. Week 16: at Tennessee Titans Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 16: Pittsburgh Steelers at Tennessee Titans – Game Summary December 21 1:00 p.m. EST Steelers 0 7 7 0 Titans 0 10 7 14 LP Field, Nashville, Tennessee 69,143 Sunny, 29 °F °C on John Parry CBS Jim Nantz and Phil Simms NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights 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. Ed Bouchette Steelers take Ravens, 13–9 http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08349/935181-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20081217071714/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08349/935181-66.stm dead December 17, 2008 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 14, 2008 December 15, 2008 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 received a touchdown pass in the second quarter, bringing the halftime score to 10–7. http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29761/TEN_Gamebook.pdf Week Sixteen GameCenter December 21, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL December 21, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20090117114229/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29761/TEN_Gamebook.pdf January 17, 2009 live http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29761&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG16&override=true National Football League Game summary December 21, 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers at Tennessee Titans NFL December 21, 2008 PDF https://web.archive.org/web/20081224013050/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29761&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG16&override=true December 24, 2008 dead mdy-all 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 Roethlisberger fumbles and two interceptions throughout the game. Week 17: vs. Cleveland Browns Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 17: Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game Summary December 28 1:00 p.m. EST Browns 0 0 0 0 Steelers 0 14 3 14 Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 63,553 Sunny, 45 °F °C on Jeff Triplette CBS Gus Johnson and Steve Tasker NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights First quarter No scoring plays Second quarter PIT – Willie Parker 34-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 4:15. Steelers 7–0. Drive: 3 plays, 57 yards, 1:28. PIT – Byron Leftwich 8-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 0:40. Steelers 14–0. Drive: 10 plays, 52 yards, 2:00. Third quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 22-yard field goal, 5:39. Steelers 17–0. Drive: 4 plays, 7 yards, 2:01. Fourth quarter PIT – Gary Russell 3-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 9:45. Steelers 24–0. Drive: 12 plays, 66 yards, 7:23. PIT – Tyrone Carter 32-yard interception return (Jeff Reed kick), 8:52. Steelers 31–0. Top passers CLE – Bruce Gradkowski – 5/16, 18 yards, 2 INT PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 9/14, 110 yards, INT Top rushers CLE – Jamal Lewis – 23 rushes, 94 yards PIT – Willie Parker – 23 rushes, 116 yards, TD Top receivers CLE – Donté Stallworth – 1 reception, 12 yards PIT – Hines Ward – 6 receptions, 70 yards Although guaranteed the second seed in the AFC Tomlin stated, "It is a big week for us." Willie Parker's 34-yard touchdown run in the second quarter was the Steelers longest run of the season. With less than two minutes left in the first half, Ben Roethlisberger was hit by D'Qwell Jackson and Willie McGinist and had to be immobilized and carried off the field after suffering from a concussion.Associated Press Roethlisberger taken off field on stretcher http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/8997078/Roethlisberger-taken-off-field-on-stretcher Fox Sports (USA) December 28, 2008 December 29, 2008 June 2017 InternetArchiveBot yes Byron Leftwich replaced Roethlisberger and scored the Steelers second touchdown of the game to give the Steelers a 14–0 lead at halftime. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29779&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG17&override=true Week Seventeen GameCenter December 28, 2008 Play-by-Play NFL December 28, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081230223154/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=29779&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=REG17&override=true December 30, 2008 dead mdy-all http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29779/PIT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary December 28, 2008 Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers NFL December 28, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20090204222853/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/29779/PIT_Gamebook.pdf February 4, 2009 live Pittsburgh scored the only points of the third quarter when Jeff Reed converted his sole field goal attempt of the game. The Steelers added two touchdowns in the final quarter—on a Gary Russell rush and Tyrone Carter's return of his second interception of the game. "We were so upset we had to practice on Christmas, we had to take it out on the Browns," said Larry Foote after the victory. Associated Press Big Ben gets concussion; Steelers rout Browns 31–0 https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20081228023&prov=ap Yahoo! Sports December 28, 2008 December 28, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081229133654/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/recap?gid=20081228023&prov=ap December 29, 2008 live Stats Passing Rushing Receiving Kicking Punting Kick Return Punt Return Defense & Fumbles Scoring Summary Team Quarter-by-quarter Quarter-by-quarter 1 2 3 4 OT T Steelers 47 106 87 104 3 347 Opponents 54 65 29 75 0 223 Postseason NFL playoffs, 2008–09 Their 12–4 regular season record gave the Steelers a second-place finish in the AFC. Along with the Tennessee Titans, who finished with the best record in the AFC, the Steelers received a bye during the opening week of the post-season. Playoff picture https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3711069 ESPN December 28, 2008 December 29, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081220141735/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3711069 December 20, 2008 live The 2008 season was the seventh of the past 16 that the Steelers were the first or second seed in the AFC entering the playoffs—never winning the Super Bowl during those seasons.Alan Robinson Bye bye? Playoff bye not always good for Steelers https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-steelerswithabye&prov=ap&type=lgns Yahoo! Sports January 1, 2009 January 2, 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110604035807/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-steelerswithabye June 4, 2011 Pittsburgh defeated the San Diego Chargers in the Divisional round, giving up a franchise post-season low of 15 Rushing yards. Gene Collier Steelers throttle Chargers' run game http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09012/941198-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette January 12, 2009 January 12, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090116160700/http://post-gazette.com/pg/09012/941198-66.stm January 16, 2009 dead The victory was head coach Mike Tomlin's first in the post-season. Ed Bouchette Steelers beat Chargers, 35–24, advance to AFC championship http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09011/941186-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20230408031007/https://old.post-gazette.com/pg/09011/941186-66.stm dead April 8, 2023 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette January 11, 2009 January 12, 2009 The Steelers defeated the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship Game. The Steelers won Super Bowl XLIII over the NFC Champion Arizona Cardinals on February 1. Schedule Week Date Opponent Result Game Site NFL RecapWild Card Bye WeekDivisional January 11, 2009San Diego ChargersW 35–24Heinz FieldSummaryConference January 18, 2009Baltimore RavensW 23–14Heinz FieldSummarySuper Bowl February 1, 2009vs. Arizona CardinalsW 27–23Raymond James StadiumSummary Game summaries Wild Card round: Bye week The team rested on December 29—the day following their final regular-season game. They began preparations for their first post-season game on Tuesday, December 30 through Thursday, January 1, before three days of weekend rest. Ed Bouchette Steelers Notebook: Pass-happy Hines Ward makes his 800th catch http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08364/938287-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 29, 2008 December 29, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20090207234002/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08364/938287-66.stm February 7, 2009 dead Roethlisberger did not practice until Monday, January 5 Roethlisberger practices, expects to play https://www.espn.com/nfl/playoffs2008/news/story?id=3811512 ESPN January 5, 2009 January 5, 2009—Tomlin stated of the injury, "We will proceed slowly with him because we have that luxury. But we feel comfortable with where he is relative to Sunday and where he’s capable of being next week." Alan Robinson Ben (Ben) headache? Steelers awaiting QB's return https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-idlesteelers&prov=ap&type=lgns Yahoo! Sports December 30, 2008 January 2, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20081231215321/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-idlesteelers&prov=ap&type=lgns December 31, 2008 dead Although the January 1 practice was expected to be normal, Tomlin allowed players to leave after team meetings and a walk-through. Gerry Dulac Steelers Notebook: Parker not expecting surgery http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09002/939112-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20230406202553/https://old.post-gazette.com/pg/09002/939112-66.stm dead April 6, 2023 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette January 2, 2009 January 4, 2009 Multiple Steelers stated that they would watch the games of the wild-card round. Some including James Farrior and Ryan Clark watched as fans; however, Chris Hoke said, "I will be watching the guys I am going against... That is how I watch it."Teresa Varley Steelers set to be spectators http://news.steelers.com/article/101608/ PittsburghSteelers.com January 2, 2009 January 4, 2009 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120226054824/http://news.steelers.com/article/101608/ February 26, 2012 AFC Divisional Round: vs. San Diego Chargers Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse AFC Divisional Round: San Diego Chargers at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game Summary January 11, 2009 4:45 p.m. EST Chargers 7 3 0 14 Steelers 7 7 7 14 Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 63,899 Light snow, 21 °F °C on Bill Leavy CBS Jim Nantz and Phil Simms NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights First quarter SD – Vincent Jackson 41-yard pass from Philip Rivers (Nate Kaeding kick), 12:59. Chargers 7–0. Drive: 4 plays, 75 yards, 2:01. PIT – Santonio Holmes 67-yard punt return (Jeff Reed kick), 7:41. Tied 7–7. Second quarter SD – Nate Kaeding 42-yard field goal, 1:56. Chargers 10–7. Drive: 7 plays, 20 yards, 3:09. PIT – Willie Parker 3-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 0:40. Steelers 14–10. Drive: 7 plays, 66 yards, 1:16. Third quarter PIT – Heath Miller 8-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (Jeff Reed kick), 7:04. Steelers 21–10. Drive: 13 plays, 77 yards, 7:56. Fourth quarter PIT – Gary Russell 1-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 12:52. Steelers 28–10. Drive: 2 plays, 49 yards, 0:49. SD – Legedu Naanee 4-yard pass from Philip Rivers (Nate Kaeding kick), 9:09. Steelers 28–17. Drive: 9 plays, 72 yards, 4:58. PIT – Willie Parker 16-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 4:11. Steelers 35–17. Drive: 9 plays, 72 yards, 4:58. SD – Darren Sproles 62-yard pass from Philip Rivers (Nate Kaeding kick), 1:53. Steelers 35–24. Drive: 4 plays, 79 yards, 0:50. Top passers SD – Philip Rivers – 21/35, 308 yards, 3 TD, INT PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 17/26, 181 yards, TD Top rushers SD – Darren Sproles – 11 rushes, 15 yards PIT – Willie Parker – 27 rushes, 146 yards, 2 TD Top receivers SD – Darren Sproles – 5 receptions, 91 yards, TD PIT – Hines Ward – 4 receptions, 70 yards Pittsburgh hosted the San Diego Chargers at Heinz Field due to the Chargers' overtime victory over the Indianapolis Colts during the wild-card round. Ed Bouchette Steelers' first playoff game will be Jan. 11 http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08363/938227-66.stm https://web.archive.org/web/20090116064548/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08363/938227-66.stm dead January 16, 2009 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette December 28, 2008 December 29, 2008 http://www.nfl.com/schedules?seasonType=POST#Week Postseason 2008 December 29, 2008 Schedules NFL December 29, 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20081229031425/http://www.nfl.com/schedules?seasonType=POST December 29, 2008 live The Chargers scored on the game's first drive with a 41-yard pass from Philip Rivers to Vincent Jackson for a touchdown. After the Steelers defense stopped the Chargers on their next drive, Pittsburgh's Santonio Holmes returned a punt 67 yards to tie the game at seven. With two minutes remaining in the first half Nate Kaeding converted a 42-yard field goal to reclaim the lead for the Chargers. Pittsburgh's offense responded with a 7 play, 66 yard drive in 1:33 to take their first lead of the game after a 3-yard touchdown run from Willie Parker. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=54462&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=POST19&override=true Divisional round GameCenter January 11, 2009 Play-by-Play NFL January 11, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090116232650/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=54462&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=POST19&override=true January 16, 2009 dead mdy-all http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/54462/PIT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary January 11, 2009 San Diego Chargers at Pittsburgh Steelers NFL January 11, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090205101054/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/54462/PIT_Gamebook.pdf February 5, 2009 live The Steelers opened the second half with a 7:56, 13 play drive which concluded with Ben Roethlisberger's sole touchdown pass to Heath Miller. San Diego had one offensive play in the third quarter, which resulted in an interception. The Steelers entered the final quarter with a 21–10 lead. Gary Russell scored on a 1-yard touchdown rush to extend the Steelers lead. The Chargers scored on their next possession, when Legedu Naanee received Rivers' second touchdown pass of the game to conclude a 73-yard drive. With 4:17 remaining Willie Parker scored his second touchdown of the game—with a 16-yard run. The Chargers' Darren Sproles concluded the game's scoring with a 62-yard touchdown reception, bringing the final score to 35–24. AFC Championship: vs. Baltimore Ravens Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse AFC Championship Game: Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game Summary January 18, 2009 6:30 p.m. EST Ravens 0 7 0 7 Steelers 6 7 3 7 Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 65,350 Light snow, 23 °F °C on Bill Carollo CBS Jim Nantz, Phil Simms, and Steve Tasker NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights First quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 34-yard field goal, 11:22. Steelers 3–0. Drive: 7 plays, 55 yards, 3:32. PIT – Jeff Reed 42-yard field goal, 6:11. Steelers 6–0. Drive: 7 plays, 11 yards, 1:11. Second quarter PIT – Santonio Holmes 65-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (Jeff Reed kick), 13:58. Steelers 13–0. Drive: 3 plays, 66 yards, 1:02. BAL – Willis McGahee 3-yard run (Matt Stover kick), 2:40. Steelers 13–7. Drive: 3 plays, 4 yards, 0:57. Third quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 46-yard field goal, 3:38. Steelers 16–7. Drive: 11 plays, 46 yards, 5:29. Fourth quarter BAL – Willis McGahee 1-yard run (Matt Stover kick), 9:29. Steelers 16–14. Drive: 6 plays, 48 yards, 3:09. PIT – Troy Polamalu 40-yard interception return (Jeff Reed kick), 4:24. Steelers 23–14. Top passers BAL – Joe Flacco – 13/30, 141 yards, 3 INT PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 16/33, 255 yards, TD Top rushers BAL – Willis McGahee – 20 rushes, 60 yards, 2 TD PIT – Willie Parker – 24 rushes, 47 yards Top receivers BAL – Ray Rice – 3 receptions, 43 yards PIT – Santonio Holmes – 2 receptions, 70 yards, TD thumb|left|250px|January 16, 2009 Steelers rally at Allegheny County Courthouse before the game Pittsburgh hosted the Baltimore Ravens—who defeated the Miami Dolphins and Tennessee Titans in the Wild Card and Divisional rounds respectively—for the AFC Championship Game. During the week before the game, Pittsburgh mayor Luke Ravenstahl temporarily changed his name to Luke Steelerstahl in order to remove the "Raven". Though the change was not official the mayor did comment that "As soon as [he] heard [the idea], [he] thought it was a great idea." Mayor's new name: Steelerstahl https://www.espn.com/nfl/playoffs2008/news/story?id=3832512 ESPN January 14, 2009 January 15, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090118030251/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/playoffs2008/news/story?id=3832512 January 18, 2009 live Jeremy Boren Mayor changes name to 'Steelerstahl' http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/cityregion/s_607140.html?source=rss&feed=1 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review January 14, 2009 January 15, 2009July 2018 InternetArchiveBot yes Pittsburgh scored the game's first points, with Jeff Reed converting on field goals from 34 and 42 yards in the first quarter. Santonio Holmes received a pass from Ben Roethlisberger in the second quarter and ran for a 65-yard touchdown to give the Steelers a 13–0 lead. Baltimore's Willis McGahee ran into the endzone for a touchdown with 2:44 remaining in the second quarter—bringing the halftime score to 13–7. Reed converted his third field goal of the game from 46 yards in the third quarter. McGahee scored his second touchdown of the game with 9:32 remaining in the final quarter bringing the Ravens within two points. Troy Polamalu intercepted a pass from Joe Flacco and returned it 40 yards to score the final touchdown of the game, giving Pittsburgh a 23–14 victory. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=54464&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=POST20&override=true Divisional round GameCenter January 18, 2009 Play-by-Play NFL January 18, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090120123931/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=54464&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=POST20&override=true January 20, 2009 dead mdy-allhttp://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/54464/PIT_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary January 18, 2009 Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers NFL January 18, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090205211716/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/54464/PIT_Gamebook.pdf February 5, 2009 live Super Bowl: at Arizona Cardinals Super Bowl XLIII Pittsburgh Steelers 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Super Bowl XLIII: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Arizona Cardinals – Game Summary February 1, 2009 6:30 p.m. EST Steelers 3 14 3 7 Cardinals 0 7 0 16 Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida 70,774 Mostly cloudy, 66 °F °C on Terry McAulay NBC Al Michaels, John Madden, Andrea Kremer, and Alex Flanagan NFL Game summary, NFL Films highlights First quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 18-yard field goal, 9:45. Steelers 3–0. Drive: 9 plays, 72 yards, 5:15. Second quarter PIT – Gary Russell 1-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 14:01. Steelers 10–0. Drive: 11 plays, 69 yards, 1:12. ARI – Ben Patrick 1-yard pass from Kurt Warner (Neil Rackers kick), 8:34. Steelers 10–7. Drive: 9 plays, 83 yards, 5:27. PIT – James Harrison 100-yard interception return (Jeff Reed kick), 0:00. Steelers 17–7. Third quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 21-yard field goal, 2:11. Steelers 20–7. Drive: 17 plays, 74 yards, 8:39. Fourth quarter ARI – Larry Fitzgerald 1-yard pass from Kurt Warner (Neil Rackers kick), 7:33. Steelers 20–14. Drive: 8 plays, 85 yards, 3:57. ARI – Justin Hartwig holding penalty in end zone, 2:58. Steelers 20–16. ARI – Larry Fitzgerald 64-yard pass from Kurt Warner (Neil Rackers kick), 2:37. Cardinals 23–20. Drive: 2 plays, 64 yards, 0:21. PIT – Santonio Holmes 6-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (Jeff Reed kick), 0:35. Steelers 27–23. Drive: 8 plays, 78 yards, 2:02. Top passers PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 21/30, 256 yards, TD, INT ARI – Kurt Warner – 31/43, 377 yards, 3 TD, INT Top rushers PIT – Willie Parker – 19 rushes, 53 yards ARI – Edgerrin James – 9 rushes, 33 yards Top receivers PIT – Santonio Holmes – 9 receptions, 131 yards, TD ARI – Larry Fitzgerald – 7 receptions, 127 yards, 2 TD Jeff Reed concluded the first drive of Super Bowl XLIII with a field goal—giving the Steelers a 3–0 lead over the Arizona Cardinals. Gary Russell scored on a 1-yard touchdown rush on the Steelers' second drive and the Cardinals responded by scoring a touchdown on the ensuing drive. On the final play of the first half James Harrison intercepted a pass from Kurt Warner and returned it 100 yards for a touchdown. As he did in the first quarter, Reed scored the sole points of the third quarter giving the Steelers a 20–7 lead entering the final quarter. thumb|330px|The final play of the season The Cardinals scored three consecutive times in the fourth quarter—with two Larry Fitzgerald touchdown receptions and a Steelers' holding call in the endzone that resulted in a safety—to give them a 23–20 lead with 2:37 remaining in regulation. Pittsburgh drove 78 yards in 2:02 and scored on a touchdown pass from Ben Roethlisberger to Santonio Holmes. http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=54465&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=POST21&override=true Super Bowl GameCenter February 1, 2009 Play-by-Play NFL February 1, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090204085709/http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/playbyplay?game_id=54465&displayPage=tab_play_by_play&season=2008&week=POST21&override=true February 4, 2009 dead mdy-all http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/54465/ARZ_Gamebook.pdf National Football League Game summary February 1, 2009 Pittsburgh Steelers at Arizona Cardinals NFL February 1, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090204055430/http://www.nfl.com/liveupdate/gamecenter/54465/ARZ_Gamebook.pdf February 4, 2009 live The Steelers four point lead held as time expired and the Pittsburgh Steelers became the first team to win six Super Bowl titles. Robert Dvorchak They're the Lords of the Rings http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09033/946343-66.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette February 2, 2009 February 2, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090205124257/http://post-gazette.com/pg/09033/946343-66.stm February 5, 2009 dead Santonio Holmes was voted the game's Most Valuable Player. Associated Press From tough background, Holmes emerges as Super Bowl MVP http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/story?id=09000d5d80e854a5&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true NFL February 1, 2009 February 2, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090203055430/http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/story?id=09000d5d80e854a5&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true February 3, 2009 dead mdy-all Mike Tomlin became the youngest coach to win a Super Bowl. Harrison's interception return was the longest play in Super Bowl history. Aron Angel Harrison swings game the Steelers' way with interception return for TD http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/story?id=09000d5d80e87dc4&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true NFL February 1, 2009 February 2, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090203163522/http://www.nfl.com/superbowl/story?id=09000d5d80e87dc4&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true February 3, 2009 dead mdy-all On February 3 a parade was held in Pittsburgh to celebrate the victory, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette an estimated 400,000 people attended. Jessica LaDow Jerome B. Sherman Ed Blazina Anya Sostek Fandemonium greets Steelers parade http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09034/946579-100.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette February 3, 2009 February 3, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090206071108/http://post-gazette.com/pg/09034/946579-100.stm February 6, 2009 dead The city's name was ceremonially changed to "the City of Sixburgh" for the duration of 2009. Rich Lord Council changes city's name to Sixburgh http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09034/946589-100.stm Pittsburgh Post-Gazette February 3, 2009 February 3, 2009 https://web.archive.org/web/20090206074028/http://post-gazette.com/pg/09034/946589-100.stm February 6, 2009 dead References 30em External links 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers season statistics at Pro Football Reference 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers season statistics at jt-sw.com Season statistics at ESPN.com Category:Pittsburgh Steelers seasons Pit Category:AFC North championship seasons Category:American Football Conference championship seasons Category:Super Bowl champion seasons Category:2008 in sports in Pennsylvania Category:2008 in Pittsburgh