With the 2025 season approaching, Steelers.com is revisiting past games against their opponents. This edition focuses on a memorable match against the Detroit Lions.
On December 23, 2001, at Heinz Field (now Acrisure Stadium), the Pittsburgh Steelers dominated the Detroit Lions with a final score of 47-14. Running back Chris Fuamatu-Ma’afala led the charge with 26 carries for 126 yards in place of Jerome Bettis, who was sidelined due to injury. “He played great,” said Bettis about Fuamatu-Ma’afala’s performance.
Quarterback Kordell Stewart completed 17 passes for 226 yards and three touchdowns, also running for a touchdown himself. “We did a lot of good things,” Stewart commented on the team’s overall performance.
The defense made an early impact when linebacker Joey Porter sacked Lions quarterback Mike McMahon, causing a fumble that Jason Gildon returned for a touchdown. “We wanted to go out there and start fast,” Gildon stated.
The Steelers’ offense saw contributions from multiple players including tight end Matt Cushing and receivers Hines Ward and Plaxico Burress, each scoring touchdowns. Coach Bill Cowher praised his team’s focus and execution: “It was a very good win.”
