Takeaways: Steelers’ late rally fell short vs Bears

Steel City Underground presents post-game takeaways following each 2025 NFL regular season game that focuses on how the Pittsburgh Steelers performed, key statistics, their opponents and more! 

The Pittsburgh Steelers showed flashes of grit but couldn’t overcome key breakdowns in a 31-28 loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 12 of the 2025 NFL regular season. With backup quarterback Mason Rudolph filling in for the injured Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh mounted a late push but came up short in the final seconds.

Below is a breakdown of what worked for the Steelers — and what didn’t — in a game that may prove pivotal in the AFC North race.

Strong start had Steelers on top

The Steelers opened with promising momentum, jumping out to a 21-14 lead late in the second quarter. One of the game’s biggest early highlights came from the defense, where linebacker T.J. Watt strip-sacked Bears quarterback Caleb Williams in the end zone. Linebacker Nick Herbig pounced on the loose ball for a touchdown, giving Pittsburgh a critical early swing.

The play encapsulated what the Steelers needed more of: disruptive pressure and opportunistic scoring. For a moment, it appeared Pittsburgh’s defense might control the afternoon.

Rudolph delivered in relief of Rodgers despite INT

Mason Rudolph, starting in place of Rodgers (wrist), kept Pittsburgh in striking distance throughout the game. He completed 24 of 31 passes for 171 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Despite the loss, Rudolph said he felt fully prepared to take the reins: “I felt ready today,” he told reporters.

His standout moment came on a fourth-quarter, 17-play marathon drive capped by a 3-yard touchdown pass to Pat Freiermuth, pulling the Steelers within 31-28 with 6:27 remaining. The possession showcased rhythm, resilience and control — traits the offense has struggled to sustain this season.

Head coach Mike Tomlin praised Rudolph’s composure while acknowledging the shortcomings: “He made plays for us, particularly in the fourth quarter. But as a collective, him included, we didn’t do enough to win.”

Fourth quarter opportunity slipped away

Despite Rudolph’s late surge, the Steelers couldn’t capitalize on their final chance. With less than a minute remaining and the ball near midfield, Pittsburgh faced a 4th & 6 at the Chicago 47. Rudolph’s pass was batted down at the line by Bears defensive back Jaquan Brisker, sealing the loss.

The stalled drive underscored one of Pittsburgh’s most persistent problems this season: failure to finish in crunch time. With a chance to force overtime, the offense sputtered at the worst possible moment.

Defensive breakdowns and communication issues

After a promising start, the Steelers’ defense faded significantly. Williams rebounded from early pressure to throw for 239 yards and three touchdowns, orchestrating 17 unanswered points spanning the third and early fourth quarters.

Pittsburgh linebacker Patrick Queen voiced his frustration with the lack of execution: “Just knowing what’s coming and us not doing nothing about it. You hear guys talking all over the field … and play still happens. So it is tough.”

Though communication appeared present, defensive discipline did not. Missed assignments and late reactions allowed Chicago to seize momentum and never fully relinquish it.

What’s next for Pittsburgh

Now 6-5 and tied with the Baltimore Ravens atop the AFC North, the Steelers face a difficult home matchup next week against the Buffalo Bills. With the division tightening, the margin for error is shrinking.

Sunday’s loss offered both promise and warning signs. The Steelers showcased parts of a winning formula — but until they eliminate self-inflicted mistakes, near-misses like this one may continue to define their season.