While they aren't rivals in a traditional sense, the Steelers and Patriots have become notable adversaries over the past 30 years, largely because of their statures as perennial contenders over that span. From 1996-2016, Pittsburgh and New England met in the postseason five times, with the Patriots winning four of those matchups. In 2004, the Steelers handed the Patriots an historic loss, ending New England's record 21 straight wins on Halloween.
The two teams will face off again on Sunday in what should be a competitive game. The Steelers are coming off a 20-13 win over the Falcons in Mike McCarthy's first game as Pittsburgh's coach. The Patriots are hoping to get their first win of the season after losing a close game in Seattle.
You don't have to look back too far to find the last time these teams played each other. In Week 3 of the 2025 season, the Steelers went to New England and left with a 21-14 win. The loss motivated a 10-game winning streak for the Patriots, who went on to capture the AFC title.
Pittsburgh's win over New England was keyed by five forced turnovers. Patriots quarterback Drake Maye accounted for two of those, including the first of two Patriots' turnovers that occurred from the Steelers' 2-yard line. Two of the Steelers' three touchdowns came off turnovers.
The Steelers' success in forcing turnovers allowed them to win the game despite their offense gaining just 203 total yards. Aaron Rodgers went 16-of-23 but threw for just 139 yards. Pittsburgh's running game managed just 64 yards on 26 carries.
It's ironic that the Steelers are Maye's opponent on Sunday. Following last season's loss to the Steelers, Maye didn't throw an interception during the Patriots' next four games, and he finished the season with 31 touchdowns and eight interceptions while garnering MVP consideration. Maye enters Sunday's game following two turnover-flawed performances against Seattle.
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