Mike Tomlin, a revered figure in NFL history, has left an indelible mark on the Pittsburgh Steelers and the league. Over his 19 years as head coach, he has established a legacy characterized by remarkable achievements and a standard of excellence. Tomlin’s tenure is highlighted by a stellar record, including:
0 losing seasons.
.628 regular-season winning percentage, ranking 14th among coaches with over 10 seasons.
1 regular-season game out of 309 where the Steelers were eliminated from playoff contention prior to the regular season finale.
1 Super Bowl victory in two appearances.
8 AFC North titles during his time, more than any other team in the division.
36 years old when he became the youngest coach in NFL history to win a Super Bowl, this record is now held by Sean McVay
Steelers.com
Steelers' Mike Tomlin looks on before Super Bowl XLIII.
As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for a new season under head coach Mike McCarthy, fans are hoping he can lead the black and gold to glory. McCarthy needs to forge his own identity on the team, but needs to embody some of the characteristics from Tomlin that include being a nuisance to play against, grit and above all, steel. With the team placed at +425 by social casino games and bookmakers to win the division, expectations are high for a return to playoff glory. McCarthy, stepping into a storied franchise, needs to hit the ground running and get both the fans and players onside. The upcoming season promises to be a significant shift from the Tomlin era, which has been defined by consistency and excellence.
Speaking of steel, here are some of the games during Tomlin’s era that epitomized Steeler spirit:
10. 2015 vs. Broncos (34-27)
This game showcased a thrilling 17-point comeback in the second half against the eventual Super Bowl champions. Ben Roethlisberger threw for 380 yards and three touchdowns, demonstrating a near-perfect connection with Antonio Brown, who caught 16 of 18 targets for 189 yards and two touchdowns. The duo's chemistry was a sight to behold, reminiscent of a cheat code in video games.
9. 2015 vs. Raiders (38-35)
In a back-and-forth shootout, the Steelers delivered one of their best offensive performances, totaling 597 yards. Antonio Brown set a franchise record with 284 receiving yards and 17 receptions, including a crucial 57-yard catch and run that set up the game-winning field goal. This game showcased the Steelers' offensive prowess during the mid-2010s.
8. 2018 vs. Jaguars (20-16)
After trailing 16-0, the Steelers staged a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback to avenge a previous playoff loss to the Jaguars. Roethlisberger orchestrated two long touchdown drives, culminating in a diving touchdown by himself with just three seconds remaining. The victory was especially sweet given the trash talk from Jacksonville pre-, during and post-game due to their previous emphatic victory.
7. 2008 vs. Cowboys (20-13)
In a memorable December matchup against the Cowboys, the Steelers scored 17 points in the final seven minutes to clinch the win. The defense made clutch plays, including a game-winning pick-six against Tony Romo. This game was a classic between two of the NFL's most iconic franchises.
6. 2017 vs. Ravens (39-38)
In a dramatic Sunday Night Football game, the Steelers triumphed over their bitter rivals, clinching the AFC North title. Roethlisberger threw for 506 yards, Le'Veon Bell rushed for 125 yards and three touchdowns, and Brown caught 11 passes for 213 yards. The win provided a much-needed celebration after a week marked by the emotional aftermath of Ryan Shazier's injury.
5. 2007 vs. Browns (31-28)
This underrated game featured dynamic plays from both teams and was pivotal in deciding the division. Roethlisberger showcased his skills with jaw-dropping throws, while Josh Cribbs dominated as a returner. The game ended with a missed 53-yard kick from Cleveland, sealing the division title for the Steelers.
4. 2022 vs. Bengals (23-20)
In an electrifying start to the post-Ben era, the Steelers secured a win against the defending AFC Champion Bengals. The defense recorded five takeaways against Joe Burrow, and a clutch block by Minkah Fitzpatrick on a potential game-winning PAT capped off the thrilling victory.
3. 2009 vs. Packers (37-36)
This game is often regarded as the best shootout in Steelers history. Roethlisberger and Aaron Rodgers combined for over 900 yards and seven touchdowns in a back-and-forth battle. The game concluded with a perfect touchdown pass from Roethlisberger to Mike Wallace, marking a dramatic end to a five-game losing streak.
2. 2025 vs. Ravens (26-24)
In a thrilling de facto playoff game, the Steelers faced off against their biggest rivals. The game featured legendary performances, but it was a missed field goal towards the end that shocked us all. This game solidified its place in the annals of Steelers history. This matchup also marked the conclusion of an 18-year head coaching rivalry between Tomlin and John Harbaugh, further adding to its significance.
1. 2016 vs. Ravens (31-27)
This Christmas Day game was nothing short of spectacular. The Steelers staged a fourth-quarter comeback, culminating in Antonio Brown’s "immaculate extension" touchdown with just nine seconds left. The win not only clinched the division but also eliminated the Ravens from playoff contention, making it a memorable holiday for Steeler Nation.
*SPECIAL SHOUTOUT*
2019 SuperBowl XLIII vs. Cardinals (27–23)
In a thrilling showdown, the Steelers captured their sixth Lombardi Trophy in the 43rd edition of the Super Bowl, further solidifying their legacy as one of the NFL's greatest franchises. With just 35 seconds left on the clock, Ben Roethlisberger delivered a perfect 6-yard touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes in the back of the end zone, sealing a dramatic victory against the Arizona Cardinals. This unforgettable moment, marked by clutch performances and a relentless defense, showcased the Steelers' resilience and determination, making it a defining chapter in their storied history.
Kirby Lee / USA TODAY Sports
Santonio Holmes' Super Bowl XLIII catch is one of the greatest moments in Super Bowl history.
Steel Curtain Call
Mike Tomlin’s era as head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers has been defined by remarkable achievements, unforgettable moments, and a winning culture. As the franchise transitions to a new chapter with McCarthy, the legacy of Tomlin will undoubtedly influence the team's future. The Steelers' fans remain hopeful that the upcoming season will bring more thrilling games and playoff success, continuing the tradition of excellence established under Tomlin's leadership.