The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for a highly anticipated Week 17 clash against the back-to-back Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. The matchup will make NFL history as the first game streamed live on Netflix, with musical performances by Beyoncé and Mariah Carey enhancing the Christmas Day spectacle.

The Steelers, who share the AFC North lead with the Ravens, face a daunting final stretch. After Kansas City, they close out the season against the Cincinnati Bengals. Baltimore’s remaining schedule appears less challenging, featuring games against the Houston Texans and Cleveland Browns.

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin (left) and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (right).

Tommy Gilligan, Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin previewed the Chiefs’ matchup, emphasizing the challenge posed by star tight end Travis Kelce.

“Can’t say enough about Kelce,” Tomlin, making his Christmas thoughts perfectly clear. He is an unbelievably unselfish player; I don’t think he gets enough credit for that. Big playmaker certainly. But some of the things you see he does without the ball in his hands for others in terms of getting them open. As I mentioned, he’s really good at play extensions and finding spacing, and being on the same page with the quarterback. He’s also done a really nice job from a protection standpoint… Another reason why I’m really impressed with the unselfishness of his play.”

Kelce’s ability to adapt has been critical for a Chiefs offensive line that has struggled this season, allowing Patrick Mahomes to be sacked a career-high 36 times. Kansas City has relied on Kelce’s versatility to alleviate pressure in both blocking and receiving roles.

At 10-5, Pittsburgh has already clinched a playoff spot, but securing the division title remains paramount. With Tomlin’s leadership and an unwavering focus, the Steelers aim to make a statement in this pivotal matchup as they gear up for postseason play.