SEATTLE – The Pittsburgh Steelers, powered by a dominant running game, defeated the Seattle Seahawks 30-23, keeping their playoff hopes alive heading into the final week of the regular season. This victory underscores coach Mike Tomlin’s ability to maintain a winning culture, as the Steelers (9-7) have yet again ensured a non-losing season.
Running back Najee Harris was central to Pittsburgh’s success, rushing for a season-high 122 yards and two touchdowns, his best performance of the season. Harris’s physical running style, complemented by Jaylen Warren’s 75 yards on the ground, proved too much for Seattle’s defense, which has struggled against the run for much of the season.
Mason Rudolph, making his second consecutive start at quarterback, threw for 274 yards, completing 18 of 24 passes. Rudolph’s precision in crucial moments, particularly his 34-yard pass to George Pickens in the fourth quarter, played a pivotal role in Pittsburgh’s win.
The Steelers’ offense amassed 202 rushing yards and 468 total yards against the Seahawks, who have now allowed at least 135 rushing yards in six straight games. Coach Pete Carroll expressed his disappointment, particularly with the team’s inability to stop the run.
Seattle (8-8), despite the loss, remains in contention for the playoffs, but their path to the postseason has become more complicated. Quarterback Geno Smith threw for 290 yards and a touchdown, but the Seahawks were forced to settle for field goals in crucial moments.
The Steelers’ defense also made significant contributions, with Nick Herbig forcing a fumble that was pivotal in securing the win. T.J. Watt, a key player on the defense, came off late in the game but is expected to be okay for the next matchup.
Injuries were a concern for Seattle, which lost right tackle Abe Lucas and center Evan Brown during the game. Lucas injured his knee, while Brown suffered a concussion.
Looking ahead, the Steelers will face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18, while the Seahawks close out their regular season against the Arizona Cardinals. Both teams will be fighting for their playoff lives in these crucial matchups.
