2001 Pittsburgh Steelers Season

Season Summary: 2001 was a season of transition. The Steelers moved into Heinz Field, and the season moved forward as the nation grieved in the aftermath of 9/11.

The Steelers were loaded, finishing 13-3 with the league's #1 defense, #3 offense, and #1 rushing attack. Kordell Stewart had the best season of his career, making the Pro Bowl and even getting MVP votes. Stewart wasn't perfect, but he managed games, made plays with his legs, and gave the offense balance.

The team had the look of a champion. Bettis carried the ground game, Hines Ward broke out as a star receiver, and the defense suffocated opponents all year. Pittsburgh rolled into the playoffs as the AFC's top seed. In the Divisional round, they pummeled the defending champion Ravens in a physical, satisfying win that felt like a changing of the guard.

But the AFC Championship brought heartbreak. The Steelers unraveled with poor special teams play, questionable officiating (especially on a forward lateral after a blocked FG that should have negated a Patriots TD), and a subpar performance from Stewart. Bettis, hobbled by injury, was ineffective, and two 4th quarter INTs by Stewart sealed one of the most frustrating losses of the Cowher era.