Game #15 Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7) vs. Cincinnati Bengals (8-6) Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012 1 p.m. (ET) Heinz Field Pittsburgh, Pa. Game #15 Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7) vs. Cincinnati Bengals (8-6) Date: Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012 Kickoff: 1 p.m., ET Site: Heinz Field (65,500) Pittsburgh, Pa. Playing Surface: Natural Grass TV Coverage: CBS (locally KDKA-TV, channel 2) Announcers: Jim Nantz (play-by-play) Phil Simms (analyst) Local Radio: Steelers Radio Network WDVE-FM (102.5)/WBGG-AM (970) Announcers: Bill Hillgrove (play-by-play) Tunch Ilkin (analyst) Craig Wolfley (sideline) National Radio: Dial Global Radio Sports Announcers: Tom McCarthy (play-by-play) Tony Boselli (analyst) Spanish Radio: Grupo Imagen - Destrito Federal (Mexico City) XEDA-FM 90.5 A Look at the Coaches: Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin Overall regular-season record: 62-32 (.660)/sixth season Regular-season record at Pittsburgh: 62-32 (.660)/sixth season Playoff Record/Years: 5-3/four years Cincinnati Bengals Head Coach Marvin Lewis Overall regular-season record: 77-80-1 (.490)/10th season Regular-season record at Cincinnati: 77-80-1 (.490)/10th season Playoff Record/Years: 0-3/three years For all of the most up-to-date information on the Pittsburgh Steelers, visit the team s official web site at. Updated daily, the web site has the most extensive information on upcoming games and the most comprehensive news on the Steelers. Pittsburgh Steelers 2012 Schedule/Results Preseason (3-1) Thursday, Aug. 9 at Philadelphia L, 23-24 (KDKA) Sunday Aug. 19 INDIANAPOLIS W, 26-24 (NBC) Saturday, Aug. 25 at Buffalo W, 38-7 (KDKA) Thursday, Aug. 30 CAROLINA W, 17-16 (KDKA) Regular Season (7-7) Sunday, Sept. 9 at Denver L, 19-31 (NBC) Sunday, Sept. 16 NEW YORK JETS W, 27-10 (CBS) Sunday, Sept. 23 at Oakland L, 31-34 (CBS) Sunday, Sept. 30 BYE Sunday, Oct. 7 PHILADELPHIA W, 16-14 (FOX) Thursday, Oct. 11 at Tennessee L, 23-26 (NFL Net./WPCW) Sunday, Oct. 21 at Cincinnati W, 24-17 (NBC) Sunday, Oct. 28 WASHINGTON W, 27-12 (FOX) Sunday, Nov. 4 at New York Giants W, 24-20 (CBS) Monday, Nov. 12 KANSAS CITY W, 16-13, OT (ESPN) Sunday, Nov. 18 BALTIMORE L, 10-13 (NBC) Sunday, Nov. 25 at Cleveland L, 14-20 (CBS) Sunday, Dec. 2 at Baltimore W, 23-20 (CBS) Sunday, Dec. 9 SAN DIEGO L, 24-34 (CBS) Sunday, Dec. 16 at Dallas L, 24-27, OT (CBS) Sunday, Dec. 23 CINCINNATI 1 p.m. (CBS) Sunday, Dec. 30 CLEVELAND 1 p.m. (CBS) Times and TV Network may change due to NFL flexible scheduling Postseason Sat.-Sun., Jan. 5-6 Wild Card Weekend (NBC, CBS & FOX) Sat.-Sun., Jan. 12-13 Divisional Playoff Games (CBS & FOX) Sunday, Jan. 20 Conference Championships (CBS & FOX) Sunday, Jan. 27 AFC-NFC Pro Bowl (Hawaii) (NBC) Sunday, Feb. 3 Super Bowl XLVII (New Orleans) (CBS) NOTE: All times are Eastern. Home games in Bold/CAPS.
THE COACHES MIKE TOMLIN was named the 16th head coach in Pittsburgh Steelers history on Jan. 22, 2007. Hired at the age of 34, Tomlin became only the third head coach hired by the Steelers since 1969. Tomlin became the youngest head coach in NFL history to both coach in and win a Super Bowl when he led the Steelers to a 27-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII. By winning the Super Bowl in only his second season as a head coach, he also became the fastest to win a Super Bowl title in Steelers history. In Tomlin s first five years as head coach, he guided the Steelers defense to the NFL s top ranking in total defense three times. He has also sent a total of 36 selections to the league s annual Pro Bowl, including five following the 2011 season. Tomlin has reached the playoffs four times in his first five seasons, including two trips to the Super Bowl (winning Super Bowl XLIII). Tomlin is one of only seven coaches in league history to win a Super Bowl within his first two seasons as an NFL head coach. Tomlin is the only head coach in Steelers history to lead the team to two Super Bowls in his first four seasons at the helm, including an appearance against the Green Bay Packers in Super Bowl XLV. He is one of only two Steelers head coaches to win three division titles in his first four seasons. Tomlin has compiled a 62-32 record in the regular season during his head coaching career. Tomlin reached 60 regularseason wins in 88 games, tying Chuck Knox (88) for the fourthfewest games to reach 60 career victories among coaches who began their career since 1970. In 2011, Tomlin led the Steelers to a 12-4 record, marking the second straight season the team has posted 12 wins, which marks only the second time in team history it has been achieved. The Steelers finished the 2011 season with the top-ranked total defense (271.8 ypg) and scoring defense (14.2 ppg). Pittsburgh posted a 7-1 record at home in 2011, upping his record at Heinz Field in his five seasons as head coach to 31-9. The Steelers finished second in total defense under Tomlin s guidance in 2010, allowing only 276.8 yards per game. Pittsburgh led the NFL and set a team record in rushing defense, yielding only 62.8 yards per game (1,004 yards), the third-best total in NFL history dating back to 1970. The Steelers also established an NFL record in 2010 by not allowing an opponent to rush for more than 75 yards in any of their first eight games during the regular season. In all, the Steelers defense led the NFL in 2010 in rushing yards allowed, points allowed (232), touchdowns (22), quarterback sacks (48), rushing average (3.0), yards per play (4.5) and yards allowed on first down (4.08). Tomlin was a three-year starter at wide receiver at William and Mary (1990-94) and finished his career with 101 receptions for 2,054 yards and 20 TD catches. A first-team All-Yankee Conference selection in 1994, he established a school record with a 20.2 yards-per-catch average. MARVIN LEWIS is in his 10th season as Bengals head coach the longest tenure in franchise history. Lewis entered the 2012 season with the most wins in franchise history (69). Last season Lewis led the Bengals to a 9-7 record and Wild Card Playoff berth. Lewis guided the Bengals to a 10-6 record and the AFC North Division championship in 2009. He earned the major share of Coach of the Year awards, winning the flagship Associated Press honor (given annually since 1957) while also getting nods from Sports Illustrated and Pro Football Weekly/Pro Football Writers Association. The Bengals were unbeaten in division play (6-0) in 2009 for the first time in franchise history. STEELERS RADIO COVERAGE For the 14th consecutive year, WDVE-FM (102.5) and WBGG- AM (970) are carrying all Steelers games. Additionally, Steelers games can be heard on a 47-station network spanning Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio and Maryland. For the third straight year, all Steelers games will be broadcast in Spanish on Estadio W (730 AM). For the 19th straight season, Bill Hillgrove serves as the Voice of the Steelers and handles play-by-play duties for the broadcast. Joining Hillgrove for his 15th season as an expert analyst is Tunch Ilkin, the former Steelers All-Pro offensive tackle. Joining the team for his 10th season is former Steelers offensive lineman Craig Wolfley, who provides sideline analysis. Stations on the Steelers Radio Network include: FLAGSHIP STATIONS (2) WDVE-FM (102.5) WBGG-AM (970) PENNSYLVANIA (33) Allentown-WSAN (1470) Altoona-WVAM (1430) Altoona-WRKY (104.9) Beaver Falls-WBVP (1230) Beaver Falls-WMBA (1460) Bedford-WBVE (107.5) Bradford-WESB (1490) Butler-WISR (680) Chambersburg-WCHA (800) Clarendon-WKNB (104.3) Clarion-WCCR (92.7) Cooperstown-WUUZ (107.7) DuBois-WOWQ (102.1) Erie-WJET (1440) Gettysburg-WGET (1320) Grove City-WWGY (95.1) Harrisburg-WHGB (1400) Harrisburg-WTPA (95.3) Indiana-WCCS (1160) Johnstown-WRKW (99.1) Johnstown-WNTJ (850) Latrobe-WCNS (1480) Manchester Twp.-WGLD (1440) Punxsutawney-WPXZ (104.1) Reading-WIOV (1240) Saegertown-WUUZ (94.3) Selinsgrove-WVSL (1240) Somerset-WNTW (990) State College-WRSC (103.1) Uniontown-WMBS (590) Washington-WJPA (1450) 2012 AFC North Standings W L T Pct. Pts. Opp. Baltimore 9 5 0.643 348 307 Cincinnati 8 6 0.571 355 293 Pittsburgh 7 7 0.500 302 291 Cleveland 5 9 0.357 280 310 This Week in the AFC North: Sunday, Dec. 23: Cincinnati (8-6) at Pittsburgh (7-7), 1 p.m. (CBS, locally KDKA-TV, channel 2) Cleveland (5-9) at Denver (11-3), 4:05 p.m. (CBS) New York Giants (9-5) at Baltimore (9-5), 4:25 p.m. (FOX) All times are Eastern. Williamsport-WCXR (93.3) Williamsport-WZXR (103.7) OHIO (4) Fremont-WOHF (92.1) Toledo-WCWA (1230) Westerville-WTDA (103.9) Youngstown-WNIO (1390) MARYLAND (4) Cumberland-WTBO (1450) Frostburg-WFRB (560) Hagerstown-WHAG (1410) Ocean City-WQMR (104.3/1590) WEST VIRGINIA (5) Fairmont-WRLF (94.3) Fairmont-WMMN (920) New Martinsville-WXCR (92.3) St. Mary s-wjaw (630) Wheeling-WWVA (1170) MEXICO (15) Mexico City-Imagen (90.5) Bajio-Imagen (105.9) Cancun-Imagen (90.7) Chihuahua-Imagen (97.3) Colima-Imagen (89.3) Guadalajara-Imagen (93.9) Laredo-Imagen (94.1) Mexicali-Imagen (105.5) Monterrey-Imagen (107.7) Puebla-Imagen (105.1) Queretaro-Imagen (94.7) Satillo-Imagen (94.7) San Luis Potosi (1100) Tampico (103.1) Torreon (100.3)
Roethlisberger has reached 22 touchdown passes on the season, marking the third most he has thrown during a regular season in his career. Year Passing Touchdowns GP 2007 32 15 2009 26 15 2012 22 11 2011 21 15 RB Jonathan Dwyer Recorded a one-yard touchdown run, marking his second rushing touchdown in the last three weeks. WR Mike Wallace Recorded a team-high 95 yards on four receptions (23.8 avg.). With 63 receptions on the season, Wallace has registered at least 60 receptions for the third consecutive season (60 in 2010 and 72 in 2011). Registered a 60-yard reception to the Dallas two-yard line, setting up a touchdown run by Jonathan Dwyer to tie the game at 17-17 late in the third quarter. Wallace has registered 27 receptions of at least 40 yards, including four this season and the second in as many weeks. WR Antonio Brown Led team with eight receptions for 76 yards and one touchdown. Registered a seven-yard touchdown reception to give the Steelers a 24-17 lead early in the fourth quarter. Tallied a receiving touchdown in back-to-back weeks for the first time in his career. Three touchdown receptions on the season set a new career high. Recorded a 29-yard punt return to the 50-yard line in the third quarter. It was Brown s longest punt return since he returned a punt 60 yards for a touchdown vs. Cincinnati on 12/4/11. TE Heath Miller Recorded seven receptions for 92 yards with one touchdown. Miller recorded his eighth touchdown reception of the season, passing his single-season career high of seven, set in 2007. Miller tied Louis Lipps (39) for the fifth-most receiving touchdowns in franchise history. Rk. Player TD Receptions 1. Hines Ward (1998-2011) 85 2. John Stallworth (1974-87) 63 3. Lynn Swann (1974-82) 51 4. Buddy Dial (1959-63) 42 5. Heath Miller (2005-present) 39 Louis Lipps (1984-91) 39 Joined Hines Ward (1,000) and John Stallworth (537) as the only Steelers players to reach 400 career receptions (405). Registered two games of over 90 yards receiving in one season for the second time in his career (2009). Has recorded 5+ receptions in four straight games for the second time in his career (2009, Weeks 4-7). Miller has registered at least six receptions in five games this season. It is only the second time in his career that he has recorded at least six receptions in five games during the regular season (2009). G David DeCastro Made first career start in second game played, filling in for injured G Willie Colon. DeCastro spent the first 10 weeks of the season on the Reserve/Injured; Designated for Return List with a knee injury. LB Lawrence Timmons Registered a sack for a 13-yard loss in the third quarter. Timmons has two sacks on the season and 19.0 in his career. LB James Harrison With Dallas on the Pittsburgh seven-yard line, forced a fumble of RB DeMarco Murray that was recovered by DE Brett Keisel at the eight-yard line. Harrison has two forced fumbles on the season and 28 in his career. On third-and-one at the 50-yard line, tackled QB Tony Romo for a loss of five yards, forcing a punt. DE Brett Keisel Registered the fifth fumble recovery of his career and first since 11/27/11 at Kansas City. CB Josh Victorian Due to injuries to cornerbacks Ike Taylor and Cortez Allen, made first career start in second career game played. K Shaun Suisham Connected on a 32-yard field, his only attempt of the game. He has now made 15 consecutive field goals, tying the longest streak of his career (15, 12/28/08 thru 11/22/09 as a member of the Washington Redskins). STEELERS TRAVEL TO LONDON IN 2013 The Pittsburgh Steelers will travel to London to take on the Minnesota Vikings at historic Wembley Stadium on Sunday, September 29, 2013. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET. It will be the first of two regular-season games played at Wembley Stadium next season with the Jacksonville Jaguars hosting the San Francisco 49ers on October 27, 2013. We are thrilled that our players and Steelers fans around the world will be able to enjoy the atmosphere at historic Wembley Stadium, said Steelers President Art Rooney II. The game will mark the first time the Steelers have played in London, as well as the first time they have played a regular season game outside of the United States. The international series of regular-season games to date has contributed to increased NFL fan interest in the UK, with a current fan base of 11 million, including more than two million avid fans, a 32 percent increase in the past two years. The following is a list of the previous games the Steelers have played internationally since 1965, all taking place during the preseason: Date Location Opponent Result August 14, 2008 Toronto Buffalo L, 24-21 August 19, 2000 Mexico City Indianapolis L, 24-23 July 27, 1997 Dublin Chicago W, 30-17 July 27, 1996 Tokyo San Diego L, 20-10 August 1, 1993 Barcelona San Francisco L, 21-14 August 9, 1990 Montreal New England W, 30-14 September 11, 1969 Montreal N.Y. Giants W, 17-13
CELEBRATING 80 SEASONS This season marks the 80 th in Steelers history and the team is celebrating its tremendous fan base. Below are a few of many events that are occuring to celebrate 80 years of Steelers football. My Pittsburgh Steelers On April 2, the Steelers gave fans a special opportunity to have their image appear on Steelers tickets during the 2012 season during the 80 th season celebration, The Year of the Fan. Starting on April 2 and running through April 20, fans were able to submit a 15- second video to Steelers.com saying their three words about, My Pittsburgh Steelers. On April 28th, 10 lucky fans were chosen to be on the face of Steelers tickets: Chris Pittman, Steve Harrison, Angelo Cammarata, Deb Neil, Benjamin and Brian Neas, Andre L. Brown, Quinn Hoerner, Theodore M. Broadnax, The Dearing Family, Mark and Corey Christofel. Throwback Jerseys As part of the 80th Season celebration the Steelers wore new throwback jerseys against the Washington Redskins and Baltimore Ravens this season. The Steelers chose the 1934 jersey as the new throwback because it was a unique part of Steelers history, and it was a uniform that had not been worn since that season. Terrible Towel Wall/Steelers Fan Blitz The Terrible Towel Wall was unveiled on April 27 in the FedEx Great Hall at Heinz Field. The wall not only celebrates Steelers history but the legacy of the towel itself. 80 th Season Celebration Weekend (November 17-18) The Saturday evening before the Steelers played the Baltimore Ravens, Heinz Field hosted the 2012 Taste of the Steelers event, which was dedicated to the 80 th Season Celebration Game. The event featured players from most decades in the 80-year history of the Steelers. The alumni were also honored during halftime of Pittsburgh s Sunday night game against Baltimore. Immaculate Reception Monument In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the most memorable play in NFL history, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Senator John Heinz History Center, in conjunction with Allegheny Technologies Incorporated (ATI), will be unveiling an Immaculate Reception monument near Heinz Field during a special ceremony on Saturday, December 22, the day prior to the 40 th anniversary of the play and the Steelers game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Heinz Field. The unveiling will take place at the actual site of the Immaculate Reception, which is located between Heinz Field and Stage AE. Also, on Sunday, December 23, which is the actual anniversary of the Immaculate Reception, the Steelers will salute Harris and his teammates at halftime of the game against the Bengals. Additionally, the Steelers and the Heinz History Center are running a fundraising campaign that gives fans an opportunity to commemorate the play with Immaculate Reception collectibles. For more information, fans are encouraged to visit www.heinzhistorycenter.org to learn how to participate in the campaign. Portions of the proceeds will go to the Heinz History Center. STEELERS AND UPMC SPORTS MEDICINE ANNOUNCE CONCUSSION AWARENESS PROGRAM, DON T HIT THE HEAD, DON T USE THE HEAD On August 29, the Pittsburgh Steelers and UPMC Sports Medicine announced a new program that will raise awareness and promote safe play among high school, middle school and youth football players. Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin as well as Dr. Micky Collins, clinical and executive director of the UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program, will serve as spokespersons for the initiative, which was derived from a saying that Tomlin uses with the Steelers Don t hit the head, Don t use the head in regards to safe play. The program will provide a letter from Coach Tomlin and Dr. Collins and a fact sheet about the UPMC concussion program. Additionally, there is a website (/playsmart) for athletes and coaches to access videos about concussion awareness, symptoms and management from UPMC, and a link to information through USA Football s Head s Up Football program with the NFL (http://videos.usafootball.com/ pagesheadsupfootball/) that promotes coaching education, proper equipment fitting as well as a set of recommended standards for parents, coaches and leagues. STEELERS-BENGALS SERIES HISTORY Series History: Series began in 1970 Overall: Pittsburgh leads 52-32 At Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh leads 28-14 At Cincinnati: Pittsburgh leads 24-18 Neutral Sites: n/a Last Regular-Season Meeting: Oct. 21, 2012 (in Cincinnati) Pittsburgh 24, Cincinnati 17 Postseason Series: Pittsburgh leads 1-0 Last Postseason Meeting: Jan. 8, 2006 (in Cincinnati) Pittsburgh 31, Cincinnati 17 (Wild Card Playoffs) (postseason record not included in overall series record) Pittsburgh is attempting to sweep the season series with Cincinnati for the eighth time since 2000, the fifth time under Head Coach Mike Tomlin and the third straight season overall the Steelers win earlier this year tied their longest winning streak in the series since they won five straight from 2006 to 2008 a win this Sunday would give Pittsburgh a sixth consecutive victory and its longest winning streak against the Bengals since the Steelers won eight in a row between 1991 and 1994 since 2000, the Bengals have only six wins against Pittsburgh, but four of those victories have come within the confines of Heinz Field in games played between these two teams in Pittsburgh since 2007, only once has the margin of victory for either team been less than seven points and five times the winning team has posted a doubledigit margin of victory...since 2007, either Pittsburgh or Cincinnati or both teams have made the playoffs each season.
STEELERS-BENGALS CONNECTIONS Local Connections Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin was the defensive backs coach at the University of Cincinnati from 1999-2000. Steelers special teams coach Amos Jones was also on the Bearcats staff from 1999-2002. Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau worked two stints with the Cincinnati Bengals. LeBeau was on the Bengals staff from 1980-1991 and from 1997-2002. He was the head coach of the Bengals from 2000-2002. Steelers S Will Allen was born in Dayton, Ohio, just an hour north of Cincinnati. Bengals Head Coach Marvin Lewis was born in McDonald, Pa., only thirty minutes south west of Pittsburgh. Lewis coached for the University of Pittsburgh from 1990-1991. Lewis also served as the Steelers linebackers coach from 1992-1995. Lewis worked under LeBeau for those four seasons, helping create the famous Blitzburgh Defense. Bengals defensive line coach Jay Hayes and tight ends coach Jonathan Hayes, who are brothers, were born in South Fayette, Pa., just minutes southwest of Pittsburgh. Jonathan coached with the Steelers from 1994-1996 and Jay coached with the Steelers from 1999-2001. Bengals wide receivers coach James Urban coached at local Clarion University from 1997-1998. Bengals QB Bruce Gradkowski was born in Pittsburgh, Pa. He attended local Seton-LaSalle Catholic High School, where he set a then-wpial and PIAA record by throwing 30 touchdowns in a single season. Pro Connections Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin and Bengals offensive coordinator Jay Gruden were both members of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers coaching staff from 2002-2005. Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau was the head coach of the Buffalo Bills in 2003 when Bengals S Nate Clements played for the Bills. Steelers defensive assistant Jerry Olsavsky played for the Baltimore Ravens when Bengals special teams coach Darrin Simmons was on the Ravens staff in 1998. Steelers offensive coordinator Todd Haley was the head coach for the Kansas City Chiefs from 2009-2011 when Bengals DE Wallace Gilberry was on the Chiefs squad. Steelers TE Leonard Pope was also a member of those teams and was teammates with Gilberry from 2009-2011. In 2009, Steelers LB Larry Foote and Bengals HB Cedric Peerman were teammates with the Detroit Lions. During his three separate stints with the Dallas Cowboys, Steelers K Shaun Suisham was teammates with Bengals S Terrence Newman. The two played together for at least a part of the 2005, 2006 and 2009 seasons. Steelers LB Brandon Johnson played for the Bengals from 2008-2011 and captained Cincinnati s special teams units during the 2010 season. Steelers WR Jerricho Cotchery and Bengals K Mike Nugent were teammates with the New York Jets from 2005-2008. Cotchery was also a member of the Jets in 2010, when Bengals defensive backs coach Mark Carrier was on the Jets coaching staff. Steelers K Shaun Suisham was a member of the Dallas Cowboys in 2005 and 2006 when Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer was the Cowboys defensive coordinator. Steelers QB Byron Leftwich and Bengals S Chris Crocker, also former collegiate teammates, were teammates with the Atlanta Falcons in 2007. That same season, Bengals assistant special teams/assistant defensive backs coach Hue Jackson was the Falcons offensive coordinator and Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer was the Falcons defensive coordinator. Steelers S Will Allen and Bengals QB Bruce Gradkowski were teammates with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2006-2007. Steelers CB DeMarcus Van Dyke played his rookie season under Bengals assistant special teams/assistant defensive backs coach Hue Jackson, who was the head coach of the Oakland Raiders in 2011. College Connections Steelers S Troy Polamalu and Bengals assistant special teams/ assistant defensive backs coach Hue Jackson both spent time together at the University of Southern California. During the 1999 and 2000 seasons, Polamalu was standout in the Trojans defensive backfield and Jackson was the offensive coordinator. Steelers C Maurkice Pouncey and RB Chris Rainey were teammates with Bengals DE Carlos Dunlap at the University of Florida from 2007-2009. Together, they were a part of the Gators 2009 BCS National Championship squad. Steelers WR Mike Wallace and Bengals RB BenJarvus Green- Ellis were teammates at Ole Miss from 2006-2007. Steelers G Ramon Foster and Bengals CB Jason Allen were teammates at the University of Tennessee from 2004-2005. Steelers LB LaMarr Woodley and Bengals CB Leon Hall played their entire collegiate careers together at Michigan University. The two played for Wolverines from 2003-2006. Steelers DE Cameron Heyward and OT Mike Adams were teammates with Bengals RB Daniel Herron at the Ohio State University. The three played together from 2008-2010 and Adams and Herron were teammates through 2011 and are both rookies this season. Steelers TE Leonard Pope and Bengals G/T Dennis Roland were teammates at the University of Georgia from 2003-2005. Pope and Roland also played with Bengals DE Robert Geathers during the 2003 season. Steelers P Drew Butler was teammates with a number of Bengals players during his time at the University of Georgia from 2007-2011: G Geno Atkins (2007-2009), G Clint Boling (2007-2010), WR A.J. Green (2008-2010) and TE Orson Charles (2009-2011). Steelers QB Byron Leftwich was teammates with Bengals S Chris Crocker at Marshall University from 1999-2002. Steelers RB Jonathan Dwyer and Bengals DE Michael Johnson were teammates at Georgia Tech University from 2007-2008. Steelers S Will Allen and Bengals CB Nate Clements were teammates at The Ohio State University for the 2000 season. Allen also played for the Buckeyes with Bengals K Mike Nugent from 2001-2003. Steelers WR Jerricho Cotchery and Bengals LB Manny Lawson were teammates at North Carolina State University from 2002-2003. 2012 REGULAR SEASON STATISTICAL COMPARISON Steelers Category Bengals 21.6... Points Scored Per Game... 25.4 20.8... Points Allowed Per Game... 20.9 19.6... First Downs Per Game... 19.1 345.1... Total Yards Per Game... 347.6 96.5... Rushing Yards Per Game... 120.3 248.6... Passing Yards Per Game... 227.4 27... Sacks By... 42 7... Interceptions By... 11 32:16... Avg. Time of Possession... 31:02 32... Touchdowns... 40 8... Rushing Touchdowns... 11 23... Passing Touchdowns... 27 1... Touchdowns on Returns... 2 26-27... Field Goals... 25-29 42.9... Punting Avg.... 45.9 7.5... Punt Return Avg.... 11.5 25.6... Kickoff Return Avg.... 22.4
WHAT TO LOOK FOR PITTSBURGH TEAM NOTES Pittsburgh is looking to win the final two regular-season games for the fourth season in a row. If the Steelers win they will sweep the season series with Cincinnati for the eighth time since 2000, the fifth time under Head Coach Mike Tomlin and the third-straight season overall. If Pittsburgh wins this Sunday it would be the Steelers sixth consecutive victory over the Bengals and their longest winning streak against Cincinnati since the Steelers won eight in a row between 1991 and 1994. Pittsburgh is looking to improve to 53-32 against the Bengals, including 29-14 in Pittsburgh. The Steelers are looking for the 599th win in franchise history (including the postseason) to make them one shy of becoming the fourth team in NFL history, and first AFC team, to reach 600 wins. Pittsburgh is hoping to hold its 10th opponent this season (eighth in the last 10 games) to 20 points or less. Pittsburgh is looking to improve to 404-257-2 during the regular season since 1970. The Steelers defense is looking to keep their 11th opponent to under 100 net yards rushing this season. If Pittsburgh holds Cincinnati to less than 180 net passing yards it will mark the 10th time this season the Steelers did not allow their opponent to register at least 180 net passing yards. Pittsburgh s defense will try and hold the opposing quarterback to a passer rating of 90.0 or less for the 11th time this season. The Steelers defense is looking to register at least one takeaway for the 12th game this season. Pittsburgh is looking to record its fourth individual 100-yard rushing performance of the season for the first time since Willie Parker (4) and Mewelde Moore (1) combined for five 100+ yard rushing games in 2008. PITTSBURGH INDIVIDUAL NOTES Head Coach Mike Tomlin If Pittsburgh wins, will improve to 63-32 during the regular season, including 36-11 at home and 10-2 against Cincinnati. Is looking to improve to 5-1 in Week 16 games. If the Steelers win, they will be 5-2 at home this season, marking the sixth consecutive year they have recorded at least five home wins during the regular season under Head Coach Mike Tomlin. If the Steelers win, will improve to 18-10 in regular-season games in December/January. QB Ben Roethlisberger Looking to improve to 87-38 as a starter during the regular season. If the Steelers win, Roethlisberger will improve to 24-11 as a starter in the month of December. Is 89 yards shy of recording his seventh consecutive 3,000+ yard passing season (2006-11). Looking to record at least three touchdown passes for the fourth time this season, marking the second most times he has thrown for at least three touchdowns in one season (5 in 2007 and 2009) If he throws at least one touchdown pass he will extend his career best by throwing at least one touchdown in the first 12 games he has played this season. Looking to record a passer rating of 120.0+ for the fourth time this season, which would tie for the second most times he has registered a passer rating of at least 120.0 in the same regular season (four in 2004 / five in 2009). Is looking to throw for at least 360 yards for the third time this season, which would tie (2011, 3) for the second most times he has thrown for at least 360 yards in one season (2009, 4). Needs 510 passing yards to reach 30,000 for his career. Looking to start his 125th career game during the regular season. RB Jonathan Dwyer Looking to eclipse 100 yards rushing for the third time this season. It would mark the most 100-yard rushing games by a Steelers player during one regular season since Rashard Mendenhall registered three 100+ yard rushing games in 2010. TE Heath Miller Is one receiving touchdown away from passing Louis Lipps (39) for the fifth most in franchise history. WR Mike Wallace Needs seven receptions to register at least 70 receptions for the second consecutive season (72 in 2011). If he records at least 100 yards receiving, it will mark the 15th 100- yard game of his career and the third of this season. Is two touchdown receptions shy of tying his career-high of 10, set in 2010. Needs 177 receiving yards to reach 1,000 for the third consecutive season (1,193 in 2011 and 1,257 in 2010). WR Antonio Brown Is 10 receptions short of tying his single season career high of 69, set in 2011. LB LaMarr Woodley Needs 1.5 sacks to tie Greg Lloyd (53.5, 1988-97) for the fifthmost sacks by a Steelers player since sacks became an official statistic in 1982. Looking to tie his single-season career high (2010) with his second interception of the season. S Troy Polamalu Needs one interception to become the ninth Steelers player to record 30 career interceptions. With one fumble return for a touchdown, will tie Jason Gildon (3) for the most fumbles returned for touchdowns in franchise history. Is one defensive touchdown shy of tieing Carnell Lake, Dwayne Woodruff and Jack Butler (5) for the second-most defensive touchdowns in Steelers history (Rod Woodson, 6). Needs one interception return for a touchdown to tie Carnell Lake, Dwayne Woodruff, Deshea Townsend and Tony Campagno (3) for the fourth-most in franchise history. K Shaun Suisham Is one field goal away from setting a new career-best streak of 16 consecutive field goals made (15, 12/28/08 thru 11/22/09 as a member of the Washington Redskins). Needs to make three field goals to tie his single season career high of 29, set in 2007 as a member of the Washington Redskins. Is four touchbacks short of his career high of 28, set in 2011.
TEAM NOTES Immaculate Reception Anniversary: This Sunday will mark the 40th anniversary of the greatest play in NFL history, the Immaculate Reception. With the Steelers trailing the Oakland Raiders 7-3 with 26 seconds left in the 1972 Divisional Playoff Game at Three Rivers Stadium, Terry Bradshaw threw a pass over the middle intended for Frenchy Fuqua. Raiders defensive back Jack Tatum broke up the pass with a hit on Fuqua. Tatum hit the ball with such force that it flew in air and was scooped up just before hitting the ground by Steelers running back Franco Harris who sprinted to the end zone to complete the 60-yard touchdown pass and give Pittsburgh a 13-7 lead with five seconds remaining. This upcoming weekend will consist of events honoring the incredible game-winning reception, including an unveiling of an Immaculate Reception marker near Heinz Field at the actual site of the Immaculate Reception during a special ceremony on Saturday, December 22. Following will be a free event that is open to the public at Stage AE featuring a KDKA-TV Live Immaculate Reception Show featuring Harris and his teammates. After the show there will be a free concert by House of Soul. On Sunday, December 23, which is the actual anniversary of the Immaculate Reception, the Steelers will salute Harris and his teammates at halftime of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Additionally, the Steelers and the Heinz History Center are running a fundraising campaign that gives fans an opportunity to commemorate the play with Immaculate Reception collectibles. For more information, fans are encouraged to visit www.heinzhistorycenter.org to learn how to participate in the campaign. Portions of the proceeds will go to the Heinz History Center. Heinz Field Advantage: The Steelers own the best home record in the NFL with a 238-91-1 record (.723) since 1970. Pittsburgh, currently 4-2 at home, started 4-0 at Heinz Field this season for the fourth time under Head Coach Mike Tomlin (2007, 09, 11). Since the start of the 2011 regular season the Steelers are 11-3 at home during the regular season. Pittsburgh is 69-24-1 (.739) at home since Heinz Field opened in 2001. The Steelers.739 winning percentage in regular-season games at Heinz Field is the third-highest winning percentage of any team at a stadium since 1970 (min. 25 games). Team Stadium Record Win Pct. New England Patriots Gillete Stadium* 72-15-0.828 Miami Dolphins Orange Bowl 101-22-1.819 Pittsburgh Steelers Heinz Field* 69-24-1.739 Minnesota Vikings Metropolitan Stadium 64-23-1.733 L.A. Rams LA Memorial Coliseum 53-20-2.726 *current NFL stadium Note: Ties prior to 1972 do not count in winning percentage The 2011 season marked the first time Pittsburgh finished with a 7-1 record at home since 2007. It was the 12th time since the AFL-NFL merger in 1970 that the Steelers won at least seven regular-season games at home, including the fourth time at Heinz Field (2001, 04, 07). In the first five seasons under Tomlin, the Steelers won at least five games at home each season. The last time Pittsburgh did not win at least five home games in a season was 2003. Since 2004, Pittsburgh and New England are the only teams in the league to register at least five wins at home during each regular season. Pittsburgh finished the 2004 regular season with an undefeated (8-0) home record for only the third time in team history and for the first time in 25 years. The Steelers finished the 1979 regular season with an undefeated home record (8-0) and eventually won Super Bowl XIV. The Steelers were also undefeated at home (7-0) in 1972. The following is a look at the list of the Steelers records at home since 2004: Year Record 2004 8-0 2005 5-3 2006 5-3 2007 7-1 2008 6-2 2009 6-2 2010 5-3 2011 7-1 2012 4-2 Defense Feels At Home: The Steelers have yielded only 96 points in six home games this season. Pittsburgh s 16.0 points per game allowed at home is fourth in the NFL and first in the AFC this season. Team Home GP Points Per Game Allowed at Home Seattle 6 11.5 San Francisco 7 14.0 Chicago 8 15.4 Pittsburgh 6 16.0 In eight home games in 2011, the Steelers allowed a total of 80 points, giving up 10.0 points per game, the lowest in the NFL. It was also the sixth lowest in Steelers history: Year Points Per Game Allowed at Home 1936 8.2 1946 9.0 1974 9.4 2001 9.8 1976 9.9 2011 10.0 Since Dick LeBeau has been defensive coordinator (2004- present), the Steelers have allowed an average of 15.5 points per game at Heinz Field, which is second in the NFL over that time span for points given up at home during the regular season. If You Build It, They Will Come: The Steelers have averaged 62,345 fans in six home games this season. If Pittsburgh holds that average for the rest of the season, it will mark the ninth straight regular season they averaged over 62,000 fans per game. In 2011, Pittsburgh registered a total attendance of 504,279, marking the fourth consecutive season that over 503,000 fans attended games at Heinz Field. Since Heinz Field opened in 2001, Pittsburgh has recorded over 503,000 fans six times. In the 2010 AFC Championship victory over the N.Y. Jets, the Steelers broke the single-game record. The attendance of 66,662 surpassed the old mark of 65,597 set October 25, 2009, during a game versus the Minnnesota Vikings. The previous regular-season record was 65,392, which was set on November 16, 2009 versus Cincinnati. Pittsburgh set the team home attendance record in 2009 by averaging 63,458 (507,882 total). Pittsburgh has sold out 309 straight games at home, dating back to Nov. 5, 1972 versus Cincinnati. Following is a look at the team s average attendance in its 10- plus years at Heinz Field: Year Total Attendance Avg. 2001 499,191 62,399 2002 490,274 61,284 2003 477,584 59,698 2004 507,385 63,423 2005 507,434 63,429 2006 499,461 62,433 2007 496,675 62,084
2008 503,125 62,890 2009 507,882 63,458 2010 504,669 63,084 2011 504,279 63,035 2012 374,068 62,345 Team record Part Of The Challenge: Pittsburgh has been dealt a serious number of injuries this year. The Steelers 2012 first-round pick, G David DeCastro, spent the first 11 games of the season on Reserve/Injured; Designated to Return List before being reactivated. The Steelers third-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, LB Sean Spence, and TE/FB David Johnson, who started all 16 games for the Steelers in 2011, suffered injuries during the preseason that have sidelined them all year. As the season has progressed starting T Marcus Gilbert and reserve LB Chris Carter have been placed on injured reserve. As the Steelers get players back from injury others go down. Just as Pittsburgh saw the return of S Troy Polamalu for the win over the Ravens (Week 13), they are still without CB Ike Taylor, who has missed most of the last three games. G Willie Colon has missed most of the last four games. This season Pittsburgh has had to count on backups at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tackle, guard, center, outside linebacker, cornerback and both safety positions. In Week 15 at Dallas, the Steelers started two rookies on the right side of the offensive line, OT Kelvin Beachum and G David DeCastro, who was only playing in his second game since coming back from a knee injury. Pittsburgh also was missing its number one and three cornerbacks (Taylor and Cortez Allen), which created a starting opportunity for first-year CB Josh Victorian who was playing in his second career game after being promoted from the practice squad. The Steelers have even moved guys to different positions to cover for injured players, Maurkice Pouncey had started his entire career at center until Week 13 at Baltimore when he moved to guard due to Colon s injury. Below is a list of Steelers players and how many games they have missed: Player Games Missed Due To Injury Sean Spence 14 (IR) David Johnson 14 (IR) David DeCastro 11 Troy Polamalu 9 Marcus Gilbert 9 (IR) Rashard Mendenhall 7 Stevenson Sylvester 6 Chris Carter 6 (IR) LaMarr Woodley 4 Mike Adams 4 Antonio Brown 3 James Harrison 3 Ben Roethlisberger 3 Byron Leftwich 3 Ike Taylor 2 Isaac Redman 2 Jerricho Cotchery 2 Ryan Clark 1 Maurkice Pouncey 1 Cortez Allen 1 Jonathan Dwyer 1 Brandon Johnson 1 Regular Starters in bold Among The Best: The Steelers have 598 career wins (including postseason), which is the fourth-most in NFL history. The following is a listing of the top five teams in the NFL for career wins (including postseason): Team Wins 1. Chicago Bears 737 2. Green Bay Packers 718 3. New York Giants 677 4. Pittsburgh Steelers 598* 5. Washington Redskins 583 *Total includes 1943 season when Pittsburgh joined Philadelphia Additionally, Pittsburgh owns the third-best record in the NFL since the free-agency era (since 1993) with a 200-117-1 (.631) record. The Steelers are one of three teams (New England, 208 / Green Bay, 204) to recorded over 190 wins since 1993. The following is a look at the top three regular-season records in the free agency era (since 1993): Team W L T Pct. 1. New England Patriots 208 110 0.654 2. Green Bay Packers 204 114 0.642 3. Pittsburgh Steelers 200 117 1.631 Limiting What Counts Most: Pittsburgh has held its opponent to 20 points or less in nine games this season. The Steelers are 7-2 this season when holding teams to 20 points or fewer. Pittsburgh has allowed the fourth fewest points per game this season (20.8) in the AFC. Pittsburgh has allowed the fewest points in the NFL since the beginning of the 2007 season. Pittsburgh has allowed just 1,566 points during that span. The following is a list of the top four teams in the NFL who have allowed the fewest points since the start of the 2007 campaign: Team Points Allowed Pittsburgh 1,566 Baltimore 1,732 San Francisco 1,819 New England 1,838 Continued Success: With a victory over the Washington Redskins in Week 8, the Steelers became the first team to reach 400 wins since the 1970 merger of the National and American Football Leagues. The following is a look at the top three regular-season records since the merger in 1970: Team W L T Pct. 1. Pittsburgh Steelers 403 257 2.610 2. Miami Dolphins 391 269 2.592 3. Dallas Cowboys 389 273 0.588 Sustaining Success: Pittsburgh has made the playoffs seven times, including in 2011, and won the AFC North five times since the divisional realignment in 2002. The Steelers won the AFC North Division three times in last four years. Although the Steelers finished with an identical 12-4 record in 2011, the Baltimore Ravens won the division and got a first round bye in the playoffs because the Ravens beat the Steelers twice. The Steelers have won 20 division titles since the NFL merger in 1970, the most in the NFL during that time. The following is a list of teams that have won the most division titles and qualified for the playoffs since 2002: Team Playoffs Division Titles Indianapolis 9 7 New England** 9 9 Green Bay** 8 6 Philadelphia 7 6 Pittsburgh 7 5 **Won division this season Regular-Season Success: Pittsburgh owns the second-best regular-season record in the NFL since 2000. The Steelers have averaged over 10 wins per year and have earned seven playoff berths, six division titles and two Super Bowl victories in that time period.
LOOKING AHEAD... The Steelers finish the regular season against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, Dec. 30, at Heinz Field. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET and will be televised on CBS (locally KDKA-TV, channel 2). The following are the top five teams in regular-season winning percentage from 2000-Present: Team W L T Pct. Playoff Berths New England 149 57 0.723 10* Indianapolis 136 70 0.660 9 Pittsburgh 134 71 1.653 8 Green Bay 130 76 0.631 9* *Made the playoffs this season Controlling The NFC: The Steelers have won 29 of their past 36 regular-season games versus teams in the NFC, dating back to 2003, including a 3-1 record in 2012. Including the postseason, Pittsburgh has recorded at least three wins against NFC teams each season since 2004. The Steelers are 102-61-1 all-time against the NFC, including 59-19-1 at home. Pittsburgh has won 11 of its last 14 games against NFC opponents. The Steelers have nine consecutive home victories versus NFC teams. Pittsburgh last lost to an NFC team at Heinz Field in 2008 (21-14, vs. New York Giants). Prior to losing to the Giants, Pittsburgh had won eight straight games versus NFC teams at home. The Steelers are 6-2 versus the NFC in the Super Bowl. In the Red Zone: The Steelers have converted 41-of-44 red zone opportunities into points this season. The only three times they did not score points in the red zone was when they ended the game by taking a knee, had a 15 point lead with 29 seconds left in the game and decided to run the ball on 4th-and-8 and when the they failed to convert a fake field goal. Following is a look at how the Steelers offense performed in the red zone so far this season: Opponent Att./Scores TDs FGs Pts @ Denver... 4/4... 2... 2... 19 New York Jets... 3/3... 2... 1... 17 @ Oakland... 4/4... 3... 1... 24 Philadelphia... 4/4... 1... 3... 16 @ Tennessee... 3/3... 1... 2... 13 @ Cincinnati... 3/2... 2... 0... 14 Washington... 5/4... 3... 1... 24 @ New York Giants... 4/3... 2... 1... 17 Kansas City... 4/4... 1... 3... 16 Baltimore... 1/1... 0... 1... 3 @ Cleveland... 1/1... 1... 0... 7 @ Baltimore... 3/3... 2... 1... 17 San Diego... 2/2... 2... 0... 14 @ Dallas... 3/3... 2... 1... 17 Total... 44/41... 24... 17... 218 Red Zone Defense: Over the past nine games the Steelers defense has only allowed opponents to enter the red zone 23 times and have yielded only 11 touchdowns. In a Week 13 victory at Baltimore, Pittsburgh s defense limited the Ravens to one trip inside the 20-yard line and allowed just a field goal. In Week 14 the Steelers only allowed San Diego into the red zone twice. Following is a look at how the Steelers defense performed in the red zone so far this season: Opponent Att./Scores TDs FGs Pts @ Denver... 4/3... 2... 1... 17 New York Jets... 2/2... 1... 1... 10 @ Oakland... 4/4... 3... 1... 24 Philadelphia... 3/2... 2... 0... 14 @ Tennessee... 4/4... 2... 2... 20 @ Cincinnati... 2/2... 2... 0... 14 Washington... 3/2... 1... 1... 9 @ New York Giants... 2/2... 1... 1... 10 Kansas City... 3/2... 1... 1... 10 Baltimore... 2/1... 0... 1... 3 @ Cleveland... 4/2... 2... 2... 20 @ Baltimore... 1/1... 0... 1... 3 San Diego... 2/2... 2... 0... 14 @ Dallas... 4/3... 2... 1... 17 Total... 40/32... 21... 13... 185 Five & 10: The Steelers ranked in the top five in the AFC and/or the top 10 in the NFL in several team and individual categories this season. Following is a list of those rankings: Pittsburgh Steelers - 2012 AFC/NFL Rankings Team Offense Statistic Rank (AFC/NFL) Red Zone Scoring Percentage... 93.2... 3rd/4th Third-Down Efficiency... 44.2... 2nd/4th Time of Possession... 32:16... 2nd/2nd First Downs Per Game... 19.6... 5th/15th Passer Rating... 88.1... 5th/13th Completions... 325... 4th/8th Net Passing Yards... 3,481... 5th/10th Passing Yards Per Attempt... 6.3... T-5th/T-15th Passing TDs... 23... 4th/T-8th Team Defense Statistic Rank (AFC/NFL) Points Per Game... 20.8... 4th/8th Yards Per Game... 273.3... 1st/1st Passing Yards Per Game... 180.6... 1st/1st Rushing Yards Per Game... 92.7... 2nd/4th Team Special Teams Statistic Rank (AFC/NFL) Field Goals Made... 26... T-2nd/T-7th Yards Per Kickoff Return... 25.6... 5th/9th Individual Offense Statistic Rank (AFC/NFL) Roethlisberger (Passing Avg.)... 7.3... 4th/14th Roethlisberger (INT Thrown, min. 182 att.).. 6... T-3rd/T-6th Roethlisberger (Passer Rating)... 98.1... 3rd/6th Roethlisberger (Interception Percentage).. 1.5... 2nd/3rd Roethlisberger (Completion Percentage)... 64.1... 4th/9th Roethlisberger (Touchdown Percentage)... 5.5... 2nd/6th Miller (Receptions Amongst Tight Ends)... 68... 2nd/5th Miller (Receiving Touchdowns Amongst TEs)8... 2nd/T-2nd Miller (Receiving Touchdowns)... 8... T-4th/T-9th Miller (Catch Percentage)... 73.9... 3rd/10th Wallace (Receiving Touchdowns)... 8... T-4th/T-9th Individual Special Teams Statistic Rank (AFC/NFL) Suisham (Field Goals Made)... 26... T-2nd/T-7th Suisham (Field Goal Percentage, min. 10 att.) 0.963(26-27)... T-1st/T-2nd COACHING NOTES In The Division: Head Coach Mike Tomlin owns an 24-10 alltime mark against teams in the AFC North, including 2-2 this year. Tomlin s 24 regular-season wins against division opponents are tied for the third most in the NFL and the most of any AFC North team since 2007 (Baltimore: 22-13 / Cincinnati: 15-19 / Cleveland: 8-27). Tomlin has won at least four games against division opponents in four of his first five seasons. Tomlin owns an impressive 12-4 record against divisional foes at Heinz Field. Tomlin Versus the NFC: During his career, Head Coach Mike Tomlin s regular-season record against the NFC is 17-7, including 11-1 at home. The Steelers finished 3-1 against the NFC this season. Over the past three regular seasons, the Steelers are 12-4 against the NFC. The Steelers.708 regular-season winning percentage against the NFC since 2007 is tied for the second-best among AFC teams. Team W L Pct. New England 19 5.792 Pittsburgh 17 7.708 Tennessee 17 6.739 Baltimore 15 8.652 Among The Best: Since Mike Tomlin was named head coach of the Steelers in 2007, Pittsburgh has compiled the third-most wins in the NFL during that time span (62). The following is the top three regular-season records in the NFL since 2007:
Team Record Playoff App. Super Bowl App. NE 74-20 5* 2 GB 65-29 5* 1 PIT 62-32 4 2 *Made the playoffs in 2012 Tomlin reached 60 regular-season wins in 88 games, tying Chuck Knox (88) for the fourth-fewest games to reach 60 career victories among coaches who began their career since 1970. The coaches who began their career since 1970 to win 60 games in the fewest games: COACH TEAM(S)^ NO. OF GAMES George Seifert San Francisco 75 Joe Gibbs Washington 84 Mike Ditka Chicago 85 Mike Tomlin Pittsburgh 88 Chuck Knox LA Rams, Buffalo 88 Bill Cowher Pittsburgh 90 Andy Reid Philadelphia 90 ^ Through first 60 wins Our House: Head Coach Mike Tomlin owns a 35-11 regularseason record at Heinz Field in his five-plus seasons in Pittsburgh. Tomlin won his first four home games for the fourth time in his career (2007, 09 and 11). Tomlin s 35 home wins during the regular season are the fourth most in the NFL since 2007. Below is a look at the best home records during the regular season since 2007: Team W L Pct. New England 41 6.872 Green Bay 38 9.809 Baltimore 36 11.766 Pittsburgh 35 11.760 With a win in Week 2 over the New York Jets, Tomlin became the first coach in team history to win his first six home openers. For the second time in the Tomlin era, the Steelers finished 7-1 at home in 2011 (2007). Tomlin has led Pittsburgh to at least five home wins in each of his five seasons as head coach. Primetime Specialist: For the second consecutive season, the Steelers played five regular-season games in primetime. Head Coach Mike Tomlin is 20-10 overall in primetime games, including a 10-6 record on the road. He is 7-1 on Monday Night Football, 8-7 on Sunday Night Football and 5-2 on Thursday Night Football. Tomlin joined only Bill Cowher (Steelers), Tom Flores (Raiders), Steve Mariucci (49ers), George Siefert (49ers) and Don Shula (Colts, Dolphins) as coaches to win their first six Monday Night Football games. Strong Out Of The Gate: Head Coach Mike Tomlin is the only Steelers head coach to win his first six home openers. In each of his six seasons as head coach Tomlin has led the Steelers to at least six wins in their first nine games of the season. This season, for only the second time as head coach, Tomlin lost the season opener. In 2011, after the Steelers lost in Week 1 at Baltimore, Pittsburgh responded with a 24-0 win over Seattle at home. This season they beat the New York Jets at home in Week 2. Tomlin led Pittsburgh to a 12-4 record three times in his first five years as head coach of the Steelers (2008, 10). Last season also marked the second time in team history that the Steelers recorded back-to-back regular seasons with at least 12 wins (1978, 14-2 and 1979, 12-4). Under Tomlin, Pittsburgh has recorded a 9-3 record in the first 12 games four times. Tomlin is the only head coach in Steelers history to lead his team to at least nine wins through the first 12 games in four of his first five seasons. Leading The Way: Head Coach Mike Tomlin has the secondhighest regular-season winning percentage (.660) amongst active NFL head coaches who have coached a minimum of 80 games: Name W L T Win Pct. Mike McCarthy (GB 2006-12) 73 37 0.664 Mike Tomlin (Pit 2007-12) 62 32 0.660 Bill Belichick (Cle 1991-95, NE 2000-11) 185 101 0.647 Andy Reid (Phi 1999-11) 130 91 1.588 Few And Far Between: Head Coach Mike Tomlin led the Steelers to at least 10 wins for the second consecutive season in 2011 and for the fourth time in five years (2007, 08, 10). Tomlin is only the second coach in Steelers history to post winning records in each of his first five seasons. He became the sixth head coach to win at least nine games in each of his first five seasons since the NFL merger in 1970. Tomlin joined George Seifert, Mike Holmgren, Bill Cowher, Chuck Knox and Mike Sherman. In 2007, Tomlin became the second head coach in team history to post a winning record in his first season with a mark of 10-6. High Honor Roll: Defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August of 2010. LeBeau had an outstanding NFL career, finishing with 62 career interceptions (seventh all-time) and 171 consecutive starts (then- NFL record for a cornerback) with the Detroit Lions. LeBeau was also inducted into the Ohio State University Hall of Fame in 2009. He played at Ohio State as a cornerback and halfback and was a member of the 1957 national championship team. Defensive Mastermind: The Steelers defense has been led by defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau since 2004. During that time span it has been regarded as one of the top defenses in the NFL, helping to lead the Steelers to three Super Bowls. Below is how the LeBeau s defenses rank since the start of the 2004 season: Defensive Category Statistic Rank (NFL) Sacks 371 1st Passing Touchdowns 154 1st Points Allowed Per Game 16.8 1st Yards From Scrimmage 291.5 1st Scrimmage Yards/Touch 6.8 1st Net Passing Yards/Game 189.3 1st Rushing Yards 12,059 1st Rushing Yards/Game 85.5 1st Rushes of 10+ Yards 276 1st Rushing Touchdowns 67 1st Rushing Average 3.6 2nd QB Rating 74.0 2nd 25+ Yard Passes 170 2nd