Steelers Control Their Own Destiny In AFC North After Routing Dolphins

After watching the Baltimore Ravens shut out the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, the Pittsburgh Steelers faced even more pressure during their Monday night home game against the Miami Dolphins. Not only were the Dolphins coming off four straight wins and fighting for their playoff lives, but the Steelers also needed a win to maintain their lead over the Ravens in the AFC North.

Fortunately, Pittsburgh took care of business on a chilly night at Acrisure Stadium, blowing out the Dolphins 28-15 behind a vintage performance from Aaron Rodgers. The Steelers improved to 8-6 with the win, staying one game ahead of Baltimore’s 7-7 squad.

With three games remaining, Pittsburgh controls its postseason destiny. Even if the Steelers lose their next two games and the Ravens win their next two, Pittsburgh can still make the playoffs by beating Baltimore in their regular-season finale in Week 18.

So, Steelers can't clinch next week even with a win @ DET and a Ravens loss to NE.

Steelers path to clinch before W18:

Ravens lose against GB and NE, Steelers win at least one game vs. DET or CLE

OR

Steelers win against both DET and CLE, Ravens lose one

— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) December 16, 2025

The Steelers can clinch the AFC North and a playoff spot before then, but not this week.

The earliest Pittsburgh can clinch is Week 17. If the Steelers win their next two games and Baltimore loses at least one, Pittsburgh is in. The Steelers can also clinch if they win at least one of their next two games and the Ravens lose both.

Otherwise, the division will go to the winner of their Week 18 showdown at Acrisure Stadium. For now, Pittsburgh is firmly in the driver’s seat.

More Steelers: Aaron Rodgers Makes NFL History In Steelers’ Huge Win Vs. Dolphins