The Pittsburgh Steelers (8-6) secured a crucial victory on Monday Night Football, dominating the Miami Dolphins (6-8) with a final score of 28-15 at a frigid Acrisure Stadium. The win, powered by an offensive surge led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers and a dominant third quarter, secured Pittsburgh's second straight victory and allowed them to maintain a firm hold on the AFC North division lead. The loss officially eliminated the Dolphins from playoff contention.

The immediate score and summary of the Steelers vs Dolphins game showed a tale of two halves. After a sluggish start left the score at 7-3 at halftime capped only by a late first half goal line "tush push" touchdown from tight end Connor Heyward the Steelers offense erupted. The team scored touchdowns on four consecutive drives, overwhelming Miami with 21 unanswered points in the second half. Aaron Rodgers threw two decisive third quarter touchdowns a 19-yard strike to Marquez Valdes-Scantling and a powerful 28-yard catch-and-run by DK Metcalf to put the game out of reach at 28-3.

The key stats from the contest confirm Pittsburgh's total control. Aaron Rodgers was highly efficient, completing 23 of 27 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns, achieving a passer rating of 125.9, his best since Week 1. Defensively, the Steelers completely stifled the Dolphins, holding them to less than 100 total yards through three quarters. Most strikingly, the Steelers outscored Miami 14-0 in the third quarter while gaining 163 yards compared to the Dolphins' devastating minus-20 total yards in the same period. This defensive dominance, which included two key sacks of Tua Tagovailoa, was the primary catalyst for the rout.

Understanding the strategic significance of the win, the Steelers vs Dolphins result gives Pittsburgh the edge in the tight AFC North race. Improving to 8-6, the Steelers currently hold the tiebreaker over the 7-7 Baltimore Ravens and control their own path to the division title. The victory not only strengthened their position but also showcased the offense's ability to explode against a playoff contending defense once they find their rhythm. For the Dolphins, the loss solidified the narrative that their warm-weather offense struggles significantly in cold environments, leading to their official elimination from the 2025 postseason.

The future outlook for the AFC North sees a thrilling finish, with the Steelers now holding a one-game lead over the Ravens. The Week 15 victory ensures that Pittsburgh remains in control of its destiny, with a high likelihood that the division title will be decided in a pivotal Week 18 rematch against Baltimore. For the Dolphins, the focus shifts entirely to the future, as they must now confront significant organizational questions after their playoff window officially closed.