Rodgers, ‘Castoffs,’ Cold Weather Fuel Steelers’ Win Over Dolphins

Aaron Rodgers didn’t need a star-studded box score to enjoy Monday night. As the Pittsburgh Steelers pulled away from the Miami Dolphins in a 28–15 win, the veteran quarterback found satisfaction in something else entirely: production from players many teams had already moved on from. On a frigid night with AFC North implications hanging in the balance, Rodgers delivered one of his most efficient performances in years while a collection of overlooked contributors helped Pittsburgh seize momentum at the right time.

Efficiency, Not Flash, From Rodgers

Rodgers turned in his sharpest outing of the season, completing 23 of 27 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns while posting an 85.2% completion rate, his highest since 2014. He spread the ball to eight different receivers and guided the Steelers to touchdowns on four consecutive drives, something the franchise hadn’t accomplished since 2018. Comfortable in the cold and content to take what Miami’s defense allowed, Rodgers leaned on quick decisions, underneath throws, and trust in his supporting cast rather than forcing big plays.

Castoffs Step Into the Spotlight

The night belonged as much to Rodgers’ supporting cast as it did to the quarterback himself. Kenneth Gainwell, signed for near the veteran minimum, totaled 126 yards and caught all seven of his targets. Connor Heyward powered in a short touchdown run that ignited Pittsburgh’s offense, while Marquez Valdes-Scantling, elevated to the active roster earlier in the day, caught a 19-yard score from Rodgers — their first touchdown connection since their Green Bay days. Adam Thielen and Asante Samuel Jr., both late additions to the roster, also made their presence felt, reinforcing Rodgers’ point that production can come from anywhere if the locker room buys in.

Defense and Depth Answer the Call

While Rodgers commanded the offense, Pittsburgh’s defense quietly set the tone. Samuel, making his first start as a Steeler after beginning the season on the practice squad, intercepted Tua Tagovailoa early and helped stall Miami’s momentum. The Steelers also survived without T.J. Watt, earning just their second win in 13 games without the All-Pro linebacker. Contributions from depth players like fourth-string left tackle Dylan Cook further underscored a theme of resilience, something head coach Mike Tomlin praised as the team absorbed injuries and kept winning.

December Momentum in the AFC North

The victory lifted the Steelers to 8–6 and preserved their lead atop the AFC North with three games remaining, including a looming rematch with the Ravens. After stumbling through a midseason lull, Pittsburgh has now won back-to-back games for the first time since September, rediscovering its edge as December football arrives. For Rodgers, who hasn’t reached the postseason since 2021, meaningful late-season games were a major reason he chose Pittsburgh. On Monday night, in the cold and with the division on the line, he looked right at home.