Steelers Hold Firm, Beat Dolphins and End Their Playoff Hopes

Rodgers threw two touchdown passes and finished 23 of 27 for 224 yards as the Steelers controlled much of the game against a Dolphins team that had been riding a four-game win streak. Running back Kenneth Gainwell provided a significant spark on the ground with 126 scrimmage yards, while Pittsburgh’s defense pressured Miami’s offense throughout. With the victory, the Steelers improved to 8-6 and maintained their lead in the AFC North, keeping playoff hopes very much alive. Meanwhile, Miami dropped to 6-8 and was officially eliminated from postseason contention with the loss.

Rodgers Leads an Efficient Offensive Attack

Pittsburgh got on the board in the second quarter with a one-yard touchdown run by Connor Heyward before Rodgers took over. The veteran quarterback showed precision and control in cold conditions, avoiding turnovers and picking apart Miami’s secondary. His connection with wide receivers such as Marquez Valdes-Scantling and DK Metcalf resulted in critical scores that helped build and extend Pittsburgh’s lead.

Kenneth Gainwell’s versatile performance also kept Miami off balance, as he contributed both as a runner and a receiver out of the backfield. The Steelers’ balanced approach allowed them to control the pace of the game and keep the Dolphins’ defense guessing.

Defense Steps Up as Miami Struggles to Respond

Miami managed only a 54-yard field goal from Riley Patterson in the first half and struggled to find offensive rhythm against a disciplined Steelers defense. Tua Tagovailoa passed for 253 yards and two touchdowns, but his unit could not sustain drives — particularly after falling behind in the second half. Pittsburgh’s pass rush registered multiple sacks, and an interception by Asante Samuel Jr. stalled one of Miami’s promising drives early on.

The Dolphins’ offense faltered especially in the middle frames of the game, producing negative yardage at times and failing to convert key third downs. Miami’s efforts to keep their season alive fell short, resulting in their elimination from playoff contention.

AFC North Race and Playoff Implications

Pittsburgh’s win keeps them in a strong position atop the AFC North as the regular season enters its final stretch. The victory not only preserved their divisional lead but also strengthened their odds of securing a playoff berth. Behind them, the Baltimore Ravens trail by a game, setting up a pivotal late-season rematch that could decide the division crown.

With three games left on the schedule, the Steelers control their destiny and will now look to build on this momentum as they pursue postseason positioning. Miami, meanwhile, will shift focus to offseason preparation after seeing its playoff hopes vanish with this loss.

Looking Ahead — Steelers Aim for Consistency

Next up for Pittsburgh is a road matchup against the Detroit Lions, where the team will look to continue its winning ways and stay atop the division. Consistency remains key as the Steelers aim to peak at the right time heading into January. Miami will use its remaining schedule as a chance to evaluate talent and begin laying groundwork for the 2026 season.