Steelers 30, Seattle Seahawks 23
December 31, 2023
Lumen Field
The Steelers kept their postseason hopes alive with a 30-23 win over the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field in a game where the offense put up some big numbers.
"We were playing a team that was desperate like we were, and we didn't blink," said Coach Mike Tomlin. "I'm appreciative of that. They're to be congratulated for that.
"I thought the offensive line provided the wave that we rode. We talked all week about trying to conquer the environment and winning the line of scrimmage being a major component of it. They embraced that challenge, and I thought they controlled the climate, made third downs, manageable ones, minimized possession downs, minimized the crowd component of it. Just thankful for that.
"A lot of plays made by a lot of people. But that's team football, particularly this time of year as the road gets narrow."
The offense moved the ball efficiently, putting up 468 offensive yards.
Quarterback Mason Rudolph, starting his second consecutive game, completed 18 of 24 passes for 274 yards.
"I thought he did a good job," said Tomlin.
The ground game exploded with 202 yards rushing, including running back Najee Harris carrying the ball 27 times for 122 yards and two touchdowns and running back Jaylen Warren carrying the ball 13 times for 75 yards and a touchdown.
"I thought he was determined," said Tomlin of Harris. "As was Jaylen. If you are a competitor, you are going to be your best.
"I thought we got appropriate effort from all parties involved and not to minimize it, but it was just a critical time and so if you're a competitor, you're going to be at your best."
Receiver George Pickens had another strong performance, with seven receptions for 131 yards, including another amazing catch that those who watch him have become accustomed to.
"We're used to seeing George make plays like that," said Tomlin.
Defensive tackle Cameron Heyward is accustomed to talking about the team's defensive performance after a game, but following the win, he was all about giving the offense their props.
"We haven't been our best defense, but to have an offense that was going out there and giving us 30 points, that's a lot to rely on," said Heyward. "I hate to say it gives us more room for error. It's a team game and to have complementary football where if we give up a score the offense goes down and gets another touchdown. You really do appreciate that."