The Steelers did not cede control of the AFC North to their most bitter rivals following a gut-wrenching 22-17 loss to the New York Jets on Sunday.
But they certainly reduced their margin for error.
The Steelers (10-4) clinched a playoff berth despite the loss. Whether they win their third division title under coach Mike Tomlin and secure a first-round playoff bye will be determined the next two weeks.
The manner in which they clinched their place in the postseason -- failing to make timely stops on defense and coming up on offense on what would have been the most improbable touchdown drive of the season -- had Steelers chairman emeritus Dan Rooney shaking his head as he made his way around a quiet locker room last night.
Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has built a career on engineering fourth-quarter comebacks, but he misfired on two throws from the Jets' 10-yard line at the end of the game. (Tribune)