<p><strong>Mike Tomlin</strong> may be one of the few <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a></strong> coaches to remain with the same team for so many years, even with highly successful results. However, his tenure with the <strong>Pittsburgh Steelers</strong> could be seriously jeopardized if they fail to beat the <strong>Baltimore Ravens</strong> in Week 18.</p>



<p>Since arriving in Steel City back in 2007, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-tomlin">Tomlin</a> has led his team to 12 postseason appearances. <strong>A stumble</strong> next weekend against a divisional rival with the same aspirations, <strong>could eliminate the Steelers from playoff contention.</strong></p>



<p>Adam Schefter, in a recent appearance on <em>The Pat McAfee Show</em>, revealed that if the Pittsburgh Steelers fail to beat the Ravens next Sunday, it’s <em>“in the realm of possibility”</em> that <strong>Mike Tomlin could leave the team after this season.</strong></p>



<h2>Could Mike Tomlin be fired?</h2>



<p>There’s been a lot of speculation about what could happen with Tomlin starting next week, with the outcome of the game against the Ravens being crucial for his future. Brian Batko of the <em>Pittsburgh Post-Gazette</em> believes that <strong>Art Rooney II would not rule out the possibility of firing him</strong> if the team fails to secure a playoff spot.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251230_BUS_553751_mike-tomlin-6_d3956daf.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Mike Tomlin Pittsburgh Steelers" class="wp-image-546674"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers.</figcaption></figure>



<p><em>“Three things I will never predict when it comes to the Steelers until I see it with my own eyes: a losing season, a playoff win, Art Rooney II firing Mike Tomlin,”</em> the insider said. </p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/mike-tomlin-sends-clear-message-to-myles-garrett-on-steelers-allegedly-keeping-him-away"></div>


<p><em>“HOWEVER … 19 seasons in, <strong>I imagine he considers it on some level each year</strong>, whether he’d admit it or not. And the negativity that would come with losing these last two games to miss the playoffs for the first time since 2022, with a rookie QB and Matt Canada, and now having a future Hall of Famer at QB and a real OC? <strong>I wouldn’t be stunned if he decides enough is enough.</strong>“</em></p>



<h2>Pittsburgh’s final test</h2>



<p>It all comes down to this for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Boasting a 9–7 record, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a> and his teammates face a high-stakes, <strong>“winner-take-all” showdown against the Baltimore Ravens. </strong></p>



<p>The scenario is simple: <strong>a victory at home secures the AFC North title and a trip to the playoffs</strong>, but a loss means they are officially out. With the season on the line, the Steelers must shake off last week’s upset and deliver a legacy-defining performance to keep their <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> dreams alive.</p>



<h2>A successful career with the Steelers</h2>



<p>Mike Tomlin has solidified his legacy as <strong>one of the most consistent and successful head coaches in NFL history</strong> during his storied tenure with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a>. </p>



<p>Since taking the reins in 2007, <strong>he has famously never recorded a losing season</strong>, a testament to his elite leadership and ability to keep his team competitive regardless of roster turnover. </p>



<p>With two Super Bowl appearances, <strong>a Super Bowl XLIII championship</strong>, and numerous AFC North titles, Tomlin’s steady hand and “next man up” philosophy have defined nearly two decades of Steelers excellence.</p>

Steelers insider reveals if Mike Tomlin could be fired with a loss to Ravens

Steelers insider reveals if Mike Tomlin could be fired with a loss to Ravens - Bolavip US

miniaturas

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-tomlin">Mike Tomlin</a></strong> faced a pointed question after the loss to the Cleveland Browns about whether the <strong>Pittsburgh Steelers</strong> were trying to “block” <strong>Myles Garrett </strong>to prevent him from reaching a dangerous sack milestone, as he is just <strong>one sack away</strong> from breaking the record. The head coach admitted there was never any such intention, even though Garrett said he felt that was the case during the game.</p>



<p>Tomlin was brief and direct in his response. <em><strong>“We didn’t take a different approach,”</strong></em> he told reporters, making it clear the Steelers <strong>did not design a special strategy to stop Garrett,</strong> who finished the game with one tackle and a quarterback hit on Aaron Rodgers.</p>



<p>Garrett was disruptive throughout the game, not only against Rodgers but also against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Steelers</a>’ offensive line. Still, Tomlin said the Browns star’s record was not a factor in the game plan. <em>“We didn’t do anything against Myles that we don’t normally do against Myles. <strong>The sack record is irrelevant,</strong></em>” the coach said.</p>



<h2>Tomlin says there was no different strategy against Garrett</h2>



<p>The approach was the same as always, according to Tomlin, who explained that when facing the Browns, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/myles-garrett">Garrett</a><strong> must be accounted for like any other time </strong>they play him. He also pointed out that Garrett did not record a sack in their previous matchup either.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Side-by-side comparison of how Pittsburgh blocked Myles Garrett in Week 6 vs Week 17.<br><br>Garrett with zero sacks in both matchups.<br><br>Same chips, slides, and bootlegs away. Game plan was the same. Don&apos;t let 95 take over. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Steelers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Steelers</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y3ICAy5zcq">pic.twitter.com/Y3ICAy5zcq</a></p>— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) <a href="https://twitter.com/Alex_Kozora/status/2005721349109735668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p><em>“We <strong>gotta minimize him</strong> if we want to engineer a victory. We did the same thing <strong>last time we played them.</strong> I don’t think he had any sacks in that game, either. So we didn’t take a different approach because of the gravity of the record. It’s just standard business when you’re playing these guys and him.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/mike-tomlin-net-worth"></div>


<p>After the game against the Steelers, Garrett delivered a pointed message <strong>criticizing the strategy</strong> Pittsburgh used against him, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/mike-tomlin-aaron-rodgers-blamed-by-shedeur-sanders-star-teammate-for-steelers-loss-to-browns">blaming Tomlin for the Steelers’ loss to the Browns</a>.</p>

Mike Tomlin sends clear message to Myles Garrett on Steelers allegedly keeping him away

Mike Tomlin sends clear message to Myles Garrett on Steelers allegedly keeping him away - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-browns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cleveland Browns</a></strong> were able to beat the <strong>Pittsburgh Steelers</strong> in Week 17. However, beating <strong>Mike Tomlin</strong> and <strong>Aaron Rodgers</strong> was not enough to put <strong>Shedeur Sanders</strong> in a world of joy, as he described it as a “<em>bittersweet</em>” moment.</p>



<p>While <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shedeur-sanders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sanders</a> was grateful for the win, <strong>he said the bittersweet moment came because they only scored 13 points</strong> and the offense didn’t do its part to win the game. In fact, it was because of the defense controlling <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aaron Rodgers</a> that they won.</p>



<p>“<em>Offensively we gotta do our part, I gotta do my part… <strong>we just gotta be able to put more points</strong>,</em>” Sanders said. And he is right, putting 13 points will lose you most of the football games. This wasn’t the case against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Steelers</a>, though.</p>



<h2>Shedeur Sanders has been the best QB on the Browns roster</h2>



<p>Three different quarterbacks have taken action for the Browns this season. <strong>Shedeur Sanders is the only one with more than one win this season</strong>. In terms of completion percentage, Sanders, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dillon-gabriel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dillon Gabriel</a> and Joe Flacco are all below 60%. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Shedeur Sanders leads the Browns to a win vs. the Steelers ⌚<br><br>The rookie QB wins the second game of his career. <a href="https://t.co/X4C7l1yF6Y">pic.twitter.com/X4C7l1yF6Y</a></p>— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/YahooSports/status/2005387893347385588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p>Sanders and Gabriel both have seven touchdown passes. While Sanders has more interceptions than Gabriel, <strong>he is averaging almost 100 passing yards per game more than his fellow rookie</strong>. Sanders provides much more upside than Gabriel in that sense. Still, against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-tomlin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mike Tomlin</a>‘s Steelers, he had some flawed moments.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/mike-tomlin-aaron-rodgers-blamed-by-shedeur-sanders-star-teammate-for-steelers-loss-to-browns"></div>


<h2>The Browns still need to make a decision on Shedeur Sanders</h2>



<p>While Sanders has been the best QB on the roster this season, the fact is the Browns need to assess if they trust Sanders for the future or not. Yes, he’s been the best option this year, but <strong>that doesn’t mean he is the best option for the future</strong>. His numbers are not precisely elite.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6952efc8e2d53b59fb2f072c" data-title="Will Shedeur Sanders be the franchise QB of the Browns for years to come?" data-options="2"></div>

Shedeur Sanders explains why Browns’ win vs Mike Tomlin, Aaron Rodgers’ Steelers felt ‘bittersweet’

Shedeur Sanders explains why Browns' win vs Mike Tomlin, Aaron Rodgers' Steelers felt 'bittersweet' - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-browns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cleveland Browns</a></strong> were able to beat the <strong>Pittsburgh Steelers</strong> and one of <strong>Shedeur Sanders</strong>‘ teammates might have indicated that <strong>Mike Tomlin</strong> and <strong>Aaron Rodgers</strong>‘ focus wasn’t on winning the game.</p>



<p>Myles Garrett is one of the most terrifying defensive forces the NFL has seen. <strong>He is one sack away from breaking the single-season record for most sacks</strong>. He got none against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Steelers</a> and the defensive end didn’t hold any words towards what he felt the rival team did in the game.</p>



<p>“<em><strong>They were more worried about keeping me away from Aaron (<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rodgers</a>) than getting the win</strong>. That’s what came back to bite them</em>,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/myles-garrett" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Garrett</a> said during the postgame press conference. He also added, <em>“Of course, they are going to throw it even quicker when I’m lined up. <strong>I know they didn’t want me to be the one to break it against them</strong>.”</em></p>



<h2>Garrett must get the sack in Week 18 to become a record holder</h2>



<p><strong>The record holders right now are TJ Watt and Michael Strahan, who both got 22.5 sacks</strong>. Garrett has 22. Hence, the game against Bengals could be the one where Garrett gets the record. In fact, it’s a good matchup as the Bengals have one of the worst offensive lines in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>. They have allowed 34 sacks in 2025.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Browns?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Browns</a> DE Myles Garrett on the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Browns?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Browns</a> win vs. the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Steelers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Steelers</a>:<br><br>“They were more worried about keeping me away from Aaron (Rodgers) than getting the win. That’s what came back to bite them.” <a href="https://t.co/EOsLNkj9Oj">pic.twitter.com/EOsLNkj9Oj</a></p>— Ashly Holder (@AshNoelleTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshNoelleTV/status/2005397011009581174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p>Now, <strong>the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cincinnati-bengals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bengals</a> are also a divisional rival so they won’t want Garrett to break the record against them.</strong> Also, the Bengals’ first priority is to protect their quarterback, as Joe Burrow already missed three months of action this season.</p>


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<h2>Garrett has had a historic season</h2>



<p>Garrett has at least had 0.5 sacks in all but four games in the season. <strong>Curiously enough, he didn’t get a sack on Rodgers in either game</strong>. That might mean <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mike Tomlin</a> managed to nullify him to some degree. He also didn’t manage a sack on the Lions and Vikings. From Week 4 to Week 6, he had no sacks, and if he doesn’t get the record, he could look back on that period and regret not being able to make an impact on that stretch.</p>



<p>However, Garrett had insanely good games too. <strong>He had five sacks against the Patriots, four against the Ravens, and three against the Raiders</strong>. He is achieving elite scary numbers. Unfortunately, against Patriots, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baltimore-ravens" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ravens</a> and Raiders, the team went 1-2. However, no one can’t put the blame of the losses on Garrett.</p>

Mike Tomlin, Aaron Rodgers blamed by Shedeur Sanders’ star teammate for Steelers’ loss to Browns

Mike Tomlin, Aaron Rodgers blamed by Shedeur Sanders' star teammate for Steelers' loss to Browns - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> had a ‘<em>win-and-you’re-in</em>‘ game against the <strong>Cleveland Browns</strong> and they failed to deliver. This puts their playoff hopes in jeopardy. According to head coach <strong>Mike Tomlin</strong>, it’s something the <strong>NFL</strong> did that made <strong>Aaron Rodgers</strong> struggle during the game.</p>



<p>Last week, <strong>the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/nfl-punishes-dk-metcalf-for-altercation-with-fan-during-steelers-win-over-lions">NFL suspended the team’s best wide receiver, DK Metcalf</a></strong>, for two games. Hence, he didn’t play against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-browns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Browns</a>.<em> “<strong>It was an impact [not having Metcalf]</strong>, but we certainly got capable men and we expect those guys to make necessary plays and we certainly didn’t make enough today</em>.”</p>



<p>During what could’ve been the Steelers’ game-winning drive, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aaron Rodgers</a> tried three-straight passes to Marquez Valdes-Scantling, which were clearly unsuccessful</strong>. If Metcalf was there, it would’ve probably being better for the Steelers, but the fact is he was suspended for good reasons: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/video-dk-metcalf-throws-punch-to-fan-during-lions-vs-steelers">Metcalf punched a fan in the stands</a>.</p>



<h2>While Metcalf is the best wideout on the team, he hasn’t been great</h2>



<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dk-metcalf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Metcalf</a> has 850 yards this season with six touchdowns</strong>. He is the best receiver on the team but he was poised to be a certified number one weapon, and those numbers won’t cut it. Also, the Steelers shipped George Pickens out of town due to his volatility. <strong>Metcalf is suspended exactly because of a volatile action he did</strong>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251229_BUS_553308_dk-metcalf_a02cf939.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="DK Metcalf #4 of the Pittsburgh Steelers" class="wp-image-490576" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>DK Metcalf #4 of the Pittsburgh Steelers</figcaption></figure>



<p>Metcalf won’t play against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baltimore-ravens" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ravens</a> either, as his suspension also spans for that game. <strong>If the Steelers win that game, they win the division and go to the playoffs</strong>. If the Ravens win, it’s them who go into January football. </p>


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<h2>Who is favored right now?</h2>



<p>The Steelers and the Ravens play each other for the right to go to the Playoffs. However, according to <a href="https://www.nfl.com/standings/playoff-picture" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>NFL Next Gen Stats</em></a>, <strong>the Ravens have a 54% of chances to go into the playoffs</strong>, while the Steelers hold a 46% of chances.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6952bae2e2d53b59fb2f0721" data-title="Who will win the AFC North?" data-options="2"></div>

Mike Tomlin explains how the NFL affected Aaron Rodgers, Steelers in loss vs Browns

Mike Tomlin explains how the NFL affected Aaron Rodgers, Steelers in loss vs Browns - Bolavip US

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a></strong> is not worried about the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> after the shocking loss against the Cleveland Browns. The warning is very clear. His teammates are ready to beat the Ravens and clinch a spot in the playoffs.</p>



<p><em>“I have full confidence we’ll go home and win next week because we’ve done it all season. We’ve handled adversity well and when we had to play our best ball we did, other than today.”</em></p>



<p>For Rodgers, with all his experience as a <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong> champion quarterback, the key is to forget what happened in Cleveland as quickly as possible and focus on a final showdown at home. <em>“Win or lose, that’s what you do. You move on to the next game.”</em></p>



<h2>Have the Pittsburgh Steelers clinched a spot in the playoffs?</h2>



<p>No. The Pittsburgh Steelers have not clinched a spot in the playoffs, and to do so, they will have to defeat the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18. Aaron Rodgers has no doubts that they can bounce back. <em>“I mean, it’s not difficult. That’s our job. We’re playing all 17 games.”</em></p>


        

        


<p>Rodgers also said that the Steelers do not need to make radical changes for the blockbuster matchup with the Ravens and that credit should also be given to what the Browns did.</p>



<p><em>“Not much. Just got to execute better. The Browns got a good defense. We didn’t execute very well on third downs. I didn’t have a very good game and we didn’t run the ball early like we wanted to. Pretty bad on third down.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/mike-tomlin-sends-clear-message-to-aaron-rodgers-and-steelers-after-loss-against-browns-in-nfl-week-17"></div>

Aaron Rodgers sends warning to Ravens about Pittsburgh Steelers before Week 18 game for AFC North title and to clinch a spot in NFL playoffs

Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to NFL as Steelers QB complains about referees after loss against Browns

NFL News: Mike Tomlin confirms Steelers could lose Aaron Rodgers key teammate due to injury for game against Ravens

Aaron Rodgers sends warning to Ravens about Steelers before Week 18 game for AFC North title and to clinch a spot in playoffs - Bolavip US

Aaron Rodgers sends warning to Ravens about Steelers before Week 18 game

Aaron Rodgers sends warning to Ravens about Steelers before Week 18 game for AFC North title and to clinch a spot in NFL playoffs

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a></strong> said that on the final play of the game between the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> and the Browns, there was clear pass interference by Denzel Ward on Marquez Valdes-Scantling. <em>“That was definitely interference.”</em></p>



<p>The veteran quarterback has been heavily criticized for targeting the same player three times in an attempt to win the game during the final seconds of the Steelers’ 20-13 loss to the Browns. Some experts even believe that MVS ran a wrong route on two of those plays, but Rodgers did not want to confirm it. <em>“I’ll have to look at the film on second and third down.”</em></p>



<p>Now, the Steelers need to beat the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18 if they want to stay alive in the race for the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong>. Otherwise, they will be eliminated with a 9-8 record.</p>



<h2>How can the Pittsburgh Steelers win the AFC North?</h2>



<p>The Pittsburgh Steelers can win the AFC North if they defeat the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18 at Acrisure Stadium. The winner of that game will become the division champion and the No. 4 seed in the conference for the playoffs.</p>


        

        


<h2>Are Steelers out of the playoffs?</h2>



<p>No. The Steelers are not out of the playoffs despite the loss to the Browns. However, they let a great opportunity slip away to secure the AFC North and also earn a week of rest, as the game against the Ravens would have been irrelevant. Now, the entire season is at stake in that matchup with Baltimore.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/mike-tomlin-sends-clear-message-to-aaron-rodgers-and-steelers-after-loss-against-browns-in-nfl-week-17"></div>

Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to NFL as Steelers QB complains about referees after loss to Browns

NFL suspends Aaron Rodgers’ teammate for five games with Steelers

Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to NFL as Pittsburgh Steelers QB complains about referees after loss against Browns - Bolavip US

Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to NFL as Steelers QB complains about referees

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shedeur-sanders">Shedeur Sanders</a></strong> and the <strong>Cleveland Browns</strong> delivered one of the biggest upset victories of the <strong>NFL </strong>season. Taking down <strong>Aaron Rodgers</strong>, <strong>Mike Tomlin</strong>, and the <strong>Pittsburgh Steelers</strong>, the Dawg Pound made a statement. After the game, cornerback Denzel Ward made sure to remind his divisional opponents of a big lesson.</p>



<p><em><strong>“I don’t know whose bright idea it was to try me for the game</strong> on three plays in a row,” </em><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cleveland-browns">Browns</a> defensive back Denzel Ward stated postgame, via<em> Cleveland.com </em>reporter Ashley Bastock.<em> “I’m always just prepared and ready for moments like that.”</em></p>



<p>With his postgame message, the star cornerback—<strong>recently named to his fifth career Pro Bowl</strong>—aimed straight at Tomlin, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Rodgers</a>, and Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who dialed up plays in his direction with the game on the line and the AFC North at stake. </p>



<p>The end result? The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Steelers</a> turned the football over on downs, as Sanders, Ward, and the Browns improved to 4–12 on the season. Now, <strong>Pittsburgh is in for a do-or-die showdown</strong> in the regular-season finale.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251228_BUS_553030_aaron-rodgers-2_b77862a8.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Aaron Rodgers " class="wp-image-553079"></figure><figcaption>Aaron Rodgers at Huntington Bank Field</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Ravens at Steelers with a playoff ticket on the line</h2>



<p>The NFL never fails to deliver. The Browns’ unexpected triumph over the Steelers has now set the table for a dramatic finish to the season. The AFC North champion will be decided in a<strong> winner-take-all matchup</strong> between Pittsburgh and Baltimore in Week 18.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/mike-tomlin-sends-clear-message-to-aaron-rodgers-and-steelers-after-loss-against-browns-in-nfl-week-17"></div>


<p>As if the drama wasn’t already at an all-time high, the winner will go on to host a home game in the Wild Card round, whereas the loser will be eliminated from playoff contention. <strong>It’s win or go home</strong>—which Rodgers, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-tomlin">Tomlin</a>, and company would’ve avoided with a win in Cleveland. Moreover, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/nfl-news-mike-tomlin-confirms-steelers-could-lose-aaron-rodgers-key-teammate-due-to-injury-for-game-against-ravens">Tomlin confirmed Rodgers could lose a key teammate for the game against the Ravens</a>.</p>



<p><strong>The football gods have spoken</strong>. The AFC North is coming down to a grand ending. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> has confirmed the schedule for Week 18, with the Ravens and Steelers facing off on Sunday night. Primetime television between two organizations with the utmost hate for one another. It doesn’t get much better than this, and it’s all thanks to the heroic victory by Sanders and Cleveland in Week 17, which may allow <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/shedeur-sanders-gets-important-reminder-in-pursuit-of-browns-2026-qb-job-after-win-vs-steelers">Shedeur to win the Browns’ QB1 job in 2026</a>.</p>

Shedeur Sanders teammate calls out Mike Tomlin, Aaron Rodgers after Steelers’ loss to Browns

Shedeur Sanders teammate calls out Mike Tomlin, Aaron Rodgers after Steelers' loss to Browns - Bolavip US

Sanders teammate calls out Tomlin, Rodgers after Steelers' loss to Browns

<p>Mike Tomlin confirmed that Darnell Washington suffered a broken arm after the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> lost to the Cleveland Browns. At the moment, it is unknown whether he will be available for the blockbuster matchup against the Ravens in Week 18.</p>



<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a></strong> and the Steelers suffered a surprising 20–13 loss in Cleveland when they had the opportunity to secure the AFC North title. Now, they need to beat Baltimore or they will be eliminated.</p>



<p>The Steelers were coming off three consecutive wins over the Ravens, Dolphins, and <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/detroit-lions">Detroit Lions</a></strong>. However, facing an opponent fighting for the No. 1 overall draft pick, they fell short once again. A familiar pattern for Tomlin’s teams in recent years in clutch games.</p>



<h2>Who just got injured with Steelers?</h2>



<p>Darnell Washington was injured with the Pittsburgh Steelers in the loss to the Cleveland Browns. This was Mike Tomlin’s response when he was asked whether the tight end will be out for an extended period of time. <em>“That, I don’t know. I just reported to you what I have.”</em></p>


        

        


<h2>How can the Steelers clinch a spot in the NFL playoffs?</h2>



<p>The Pittsburgh Steelers can clinch a spot in the playoffs if they defeat the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18. In addition, that would give them the AFC North title and a home playoff game in the Wild Card round.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/what-happens-if-pittsburgh-steelers-lose-today-against-browns-in-nfl-week-17"></div>

Mike Tomlin confirms Pittsburgh Steelers could lose Aaron Rodgers key teammate due to injury for game against Ravens

Are Steelers eliminated from 2026 NFL playoffs after loss against Browns in Week 17?

Mike Tomlin sends clear message to Aaron Rodgers and Steelers after loss against Browns in NFL Week 17

Mike Tomlin confirms Steelers could lose Aaron Rodgers key teammate due to injury for game against Ravens - Bolavip US

Mike Tomlin confirms Steelers could lose Aaron Rodgers key teammate for game vs Ravens

<p>Mike Tomlin did not appear pressured after the shocking loss by the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> against the Cleveland Browns. The head coach said he is ready to put the season on the line at home when they face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18.</p>



<p><em>“We certainly didn’t make enough plays today. They did. It’s back to work for us. We’ve been here before. So, certainly we have a big week ahead of us. A big game at Acrisure next weekend.”</em></p>



<p>The Steelers need to beat the Ravens to qualify for the playoffs; otherwise, they will be eliminated. That would end any <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong> aspirations for <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a></strong> and could potentially bring massive changes to the organization.</p>



<h2>Why did Steelers lose to Browns?</h2>



<p>The Steelers lost to the Cleveland Browns because the offense had a bad day, failing to capitalize on fourth-down opportunities and in the red zone. Chris Boswell missed a crucial field goal in the second half and, and in the final minutes, Rodgers had four chances inside the 10-yard line but was unable to get the tying touchdown.</p>


        

        


<p>Tomlin admitted that his team played poorly in many stretches of the game in Cleveland and that, when they were knocking on the door, they were never able to make the big splash play that would have tipped the balance in their favor.</p>



<p><em>“I didn’t think we played poorly. I just think we didn’t make enough plays. We never made that signature play that kind of got us over the hump. That generally is the deciding factor in games like this. We didn’t make them today. We make no excuses about what we do.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/do-the-steelers-clinch-a-spot-in-the-playoffs-if-ravens-lose-today-against-packers-in-nfl-week-17"></div>

Mike Tomlin sends clear message to Aaron Rodgers and Pittsburgh Steelers after loss against Cleveland Browns

What happens if Pittsburgh Steelers lose today against Browns in NFL Week 17?

Mike Tomlin sends clear message to Aaron Rodgers and Pittsburgh Steelers after loss against Browns - Bolavip US

Mike Tomlin sends clear message to Aaron Rodgers and Steelers after loss vs Browns

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> suffered a surprising loss to the Cleveland Browns when they had full control of the AFC North. Now, things have become more complicated on the road to the playoffs.</p>



<p>The Steelers fell to a 9-7 record and, due to the result in Cleveland, have allowed the Baltimore Ravens to remain alive in the fight for the divisional title. Everything will be decided in the game the two teams will play against each other in Week 18.</p>



<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a></strong> signed with the Steelers hoping to contend for a <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong> in the final stretch of his career. However, that dream could evaporate sooner than many expected.</p>



<h2>Are the Steelers eliminated from NFL playoffs after losing to Browns?</h2>



<p>No. The Pittsburgh Steelers are not eliminated from the playoffs despite losing to the Cleveland Browns. In fact, with their 9–7 record, they still remain in first place in the AFC North.</p>


        

        


<h2>Can the Steelers win the AFC North and make the playoffs?</h2>



<p>Yes. The Steelers can make the playoffs and win the AFC North if they defeat the Baltimore Ravens at home in Week 18. It is one of the most important games of the entire NFL regular-season finale. The winner gets in, and the loser is eliminated.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/aaron-rodgers-sends-clear-message-to-shedeur-sanders-amid-steelers-vs-browns-rivalry"></div>

Are Pittsburgh Steelers eliminated from 2026 NFL playoffs after loss against Browns in Week 17?

Do the Steelers clinch a spot in the playoffs if Ravens lose today against Packers in NFL Week 17?

Are Steelers eliminated from NFL playoffs after loss against Browns in Week 17? - Bolavip US

Are Steelers eliminated from 2026 NFL playoffs after loss to Browns?

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> and <strong>Baltimore Ravens</strong> are battling for the <strong>AFC North</strong> title, while the <strong>Tampa Bay Buccaneers</strong> and the <strong>Carolina Panthers</strong> are doing the same in the <strong>NFC South</strong>. After all four teams played in Week 17 of the 2025 <strong>NFL</strong> season, how are each division’s standings?</p>



<p>Oh, boy. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> is filled with drama and despite the Baltimore Ravens beating the Green Bay Packers on Saturday, <strong>all the Pittsburgh Steelers needed to do was win against the Cleveland Browns and secure their AFC North title</strong>. Of course, the Steelers didn’t do it and next week they face the Ravens for both the divisional title and the playoff berth. This is how the AFC North looks now:</p>



<ol><li>Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)</li><li><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baltimore-ravens" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baltimore Ravens</a> (8-8) </li><li>Cincinnati Bengals (6-10) </li><li>Cleveland Browns (4-12)</li></ol>



<h2>NFC South standings are yet to be defined</h2>



<p>Baker Mayfield and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> had a huge collapse as they needed to win to boost their playoff chances. They played an already eliminated team in the Miami Dolphins, <strong>yet they still lost and looked awful all game long</strong>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251228_BUS_552894_baker-mayfield-1_7117b77d.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Baker Mayfield Buccaneers QB" class="wp-image-534321"></figure><figcaption>Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</figcaption></figure>



<p>As for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panthers</a>, a win paired with the Bucs loss would’ve given them the NFC South title, but they faced a tough test against the Seahawks and <strong>even while being a gritty team, they weren’t able to win.</strong> Panthers and Bucs play next week and the winner clinches the division and a playoff spot. The NFC South standings:</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/amid-heated-rift-with-ravens-lamar-jackson-reportedly-hints-at-nfl-team-he-wants-to-play-for"></div>


<ol><li>Carolina Panthers (8-8)</li><li>Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-9)</li><li>Atlanta Falcons (6-9)* haven’t played their Week 17 game yet</li><li>New Orleans Saints (6-10)</li></ol>



<h2>Only the division winners will go to the playoffs</h2>



<p>Other divisions will grant Wild Card spots but given the record of these teams, only the winners will go to the playoffs, so there are massive implications now that <strong>the Week 18 games will be <em>‘win-and-you’re-in’</em> games</strong>.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="69519836e2d53b59fb2f0716" data-title="Who will win the AFC North and NFC South divisions?" data-options="4"></div>

NFL playoff picture: NFC South and AFC North standings updated after 2025 Week 17

NFL playoff picture: NFC South and AFC North standings updated after 2025 Week 17 - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> did not receive the help they needed from the Green Bay Packers to win the AFC North, and thanks to their victory at Lambeau Field, the Baltimore Ravens remain alive in the fight for the divisional title.</p>



<p>However, in the most important detail for Mike Tomlin, the Steelers control their own destiny to clinch a berth in the playoffs. If they win their game against the Browns in Cleveland, they will have their postseason spot secured.</p>



<p>For <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a></strong>, who could be on the verge of retirement, this is an unbeatable opportunity to pursue one last <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong> in his career. However, a loss in Week 17 could complicate everything.</p>



<h2>What happens if Steelers lose today against Browns?</h2>



<p>If the Steelers lose today against the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh would fall to a 9-7 record and would have only a one-game lead over the Ravens in the AFC North. That would mean the divisional title would be decided in the final game between the two teams, which would be played in Week 18 at Acrisure Stadium.</p>


        

        


<h2>Can the Steelers make the playoffs?</h2>



<p>The Steelers can make the playoffs if they defeat the Browns in Cleveland. That would automatically lock them in as the No. 4 seed in the AFC with a home game in the Wild Card round. If they lose, they would have a second chance to clinch a spot by beating the Ravens in Week 18.</p>


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What happens if Pittsburgh Steelers lose today against Cleveland Browns in NFL Week 17?

Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to Shedeur Sanders amid Steelers vs Browns rivalry

What happens if Steelers lose today against Browns in NFL Week 17? - Bolavip US

What happens if Pittsburgh Steelers lose to Browns in Week 17?

<p>The Baltimore Ravens and Lamar Jackson have run out of margin for error in the race for the AFC North and the playoffs. With the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> on a strong run, John Harbaugh’s team is now up against the ropes.</p>



<p>Because of this, the blockbuster game between the Ravens and the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field has massive postseason implications. Even though Jordan Love will not play, Malik Willis has proven to be a reliable backup quarterback.</p>



<p>Given this scenario, the big question is what happens if the Ravens lose on the road against the Packers. Their <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong> hopes are on the line, and if things don’t go well, Baltimore’s front office could consider a change in direction at quarterback or head coach for the future.</p>



<h2>What happens if Ravens lose today against Packers?</h2>



<p>If the Ravens lose today against the Green Bay Packers, they will be officially eliminated from the playoffs. They would no longer be able to catch the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC North, as they would be more than two games behind in the standings.</p>


        

        


<h2>Are the Ravens eliminated from playoffs with a loss to Packers?</h2>



<p>Yes. The Ravens would be eliminated from the playoffs with a loss to the Packers, as they would also be unable to catch teams like the Houston Texans or the Indianapolis Colts in the Wild Card race for the No. 7 seed. As already mentioned, the AFC North title would also be out of reach.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/packers-confirm-if-jordan-love-will-play-against-ravens-in-week-17"></div>

Are Ravens eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss today against Packers?

Why is Malik Willis and not Jordan Love playing today for Packers vs Ravens in NFL Week 17?

Are Baltimore Ravens eliminated from NFL playoffs if they lose today against Packers in Week 17? - Bolavip US

Are Ravens eliminated from playoffs with loss to Packers?

Are Ravens eliminated from NFL playoffs if they lose today against Packers in Week 17?

<p><strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/aaron-rodgers">Aaron Rodgers</a></strong> and the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> visit the Cleveland Browns looking to win the AFC North. The veteran quarterback was very clear about the highly anticipated matchup with <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shedeur-sanders">Shedeur Sanders</a></strong> and the young prospect’s career.</p>



<p><em>“I’ve followed Shedeur’s career. I mean, any football fan that watched him go from Jackson to Boulder, and that being kind of a former Pac-12 school, obviously was pulling for him. There’s a tough draft slide. Obviously, much longer wait than mine was, but it seems like he’s been patient and worked on his craft. He’s been playing pretty good the last few weeks.”</em></p>



<p>The Steelers are fighting to clinch a spot in the playoffs to keep their <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong> hopes alive, while the Browns are eliminated and are in the race to secure the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft along with the Giants and the Raiders.</p>



<h2>How can Steelers clinch the playoffs?</h2>



<p>The Steelers can clinch a playoff spot if the Baltimore Ravens lose to the Green Bay Packers or if Pittsburgh defeats Cleveland. Either of those results would secure them a berth in the postseason.</p>


        

        


<h2>How can the Pittsburgh Steelers win the AFC North?</h2>



<p>The Steelers can win the AFC North if they defeat the Cleveland Browns in Week 17. They could also clinch the division title a day earlier if the Packers beat the Ravens at Lambeau Field.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/do-the-steelers-clinch-a-spot-in-the-playoffs-if-ravens-lose-today-against-packers-in-nfl-week-17"></div>


<p>If the Steelers lose to Cleveland and the Ravens beat the Packers, the AFC North title would be decided in Week 18 when Baltimore visits Pittsburgh. The winner would be crowned division champion, and the loser would go home.</p>

Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to Shedeur Sanders amid Pittsburgh Steelers vs Cleveland Browns rivalry

NFL News: Aaron Rodgers sends clear message after Mike Tomlin blamed quarterback and Steelers’ offense for loss against Packers

Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to Shedeur Sanders amid Steelers vs Browns rivalry in NFL Week 17 game - Bolavip US

Aaron Rodgers sends clear message to Shedeur Sanders

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