Patriots vs. Steelers NFL Game Week 2 | Sep 21, 2025

The New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers are set to collide in a classic AFC matchup during Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season. Scheduled for Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET, this game at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, will be a battle of grit, strategy, and tradition. Broadcast on CBS, with tickets starting at $225, fans have a prime opportunity to witness this storied rivalry live or tune in from home. This clash promises intense competition, emerging stars, and the passionate energy of two of the NFL’s most loyal fanbases. Below is a comprehensive guide to the game, including team dynamics, key players, viewing options, and tips for attending or watching.

A Rivalry Rooted in History

The Patriots-Steelers rivalry is one of the NFL’s most iconic, with Pittsburgh holding a 16-15 edge in the all-time regular-season series. Their last meeting in 2024 saw the Steelers edge out a 20-17 victory in Foxborough, showcasing their physical brand of football. This Week 3 matchup offers the Patriots, under second-year head coach Jerod Mayo, a chance to rebound from a 7-10 season in 2024 and make a statement on the road. Meanwhile, the Steelers, coming off a 10-7 campaign led by Mike Tomlin, aim to solidify their AFC North dominance with a new quarterback dynamic.

Both teams enter 2025 with playoff aspirations. The Patriots, rebuilding around rookie quarterback Drake Maye, are focused on blending youth with veteran leadership. The Steelers, with a quarterback tandem of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, rely on their trademark defense and a revitalized offense. This early-season game could set the tone for their respective postseason pushes.

Game Details: When, Where, and How to Watch

• Date and Time: Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET
• Location: Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• TV/Streaming: CBS (check local listings for channel numbers)
• Local Broadcast: WBZ-TV (CBS/4) in Boston, KDKA-TV (CBS/2) in Pittsburgh
• Radio: 98.5 The Sports Hub (Boston), WDVE 102.5 FM (Pittsburgh), SiriusXM channels 237 (New England) and 238 (Pittsburgh)
• Announcers: Kevin Harlan (play-by-play), Trent Green (color analyst), Melanie Collins (sideline)
• Streaming Options: Stream the game via Paramount+, the CBS Sports app, fuboTV, or YouTube TV, all offering free trials for new users. NFL+ provides mobile streaming for out-of-market fans, starting at $6.99/month.

CBS’s broadcast, featuring Kevin Harlan’s dynamic play-by-play and Trent Green’s expert analysis, ensures a high-energy viewing experience. Fans can stream the game through Paramount+ or the CBS Sports app with a cable login or via live TV streaming services like fuboTV, which offers a seven-day free trial. NFL+ is ideal for out-of-market viewers, providing live game audio and mobile streaming. Check your local CBS affiliate to confirm channel availability, as it varies by region.

Ticket Information: Experience Acrisure Stadium

Attending the game at Acrisure Stadium is a bucket-list experience for NFL fans, with its passionate “Terrible Towel” waving crowd and rich football history. Tickets start at $225, Ticketmaster, and StubHub, through platforms like Ticketmaster, StubHub, and SeatGeek, with prices varying based on seating location. Upper-level seats offer more affordable options, while lower-level and club seats near the field command premium rates. Given the rivalry’s intensity and Pittsburgh’s loyal fanbase, tickets are expected to sell quickly.

To secure the best deals, compare prices across platforms and choose verified tickets to avoid scams. Elevate your game-day experience with Patriots or Steelers gear from Fanatics, offering everything from Drake Maye jerseys to Russell Wilson hoodies. Acrisure Stadium’s electric atmosphere, complete with tailgating traditions and the roar of Steelers Nation, makes this a must-attend event.

Key Players to Watch

New England Patriots

• Drake Maye (QB): The 2024 first-round pick showed promise in his rookie season, throwing for 2,754 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. His arm talent and mobility will be tested against Pittsburgh’s relentless defense.
• Rhamondre Stevenson (RB): Stevenson ran for 987 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024, while adding 312 receiving yards. His physicality could exploit gaps in Pittsburgh’s run defense.
• Christian Gonzalez (CB): The young cornerback emerged as a shutdown defender in 2024, with three interceptions and 46 tackles. He’ll be tasked with containing Pittsburgh’s receivers.
• Jerod Mayo (Head Coach): Mayo’s defensive expertise led to a top-12 unit (321.4 yards allowed per game) in 2024. His game plan to pressure Pittsburgh’s quarterbacks will be critical.

Pittsburgh Steelers

• Russell Wilson (QB): Wilson, acquired in 2024, threw for 3,127 yards, 20 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, bringing veteran leadership to Pittsburgh’s offense. His experience could be a difference-maker.
• Najee Harris (RB): Harris powered the Steelers’ ground game with 1,154 yards and nine touchdowns in 2024. His bruising style will challenge New England’s front seven.
• George Pickens (WR): Pickens led the Steelers with 67 catches for 1,087 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024. His big-play ability will test New England’s secondary.
• Mike Tomlin (Head Coach): Tomlin’s defensive schemes and situational mastery led to a top-five defense (309.8 yards allowed per game) in 2024. His ability to outsmart Mayo will be key.

Game Preview: What to Expect on the Field

This matchup pits the Patriots’ youthful energy against the Steelers’ battle-tested physicality. New England’s offense, ranked 15th in scoring (22.3 points per game in 2024), relies on Maye’s growth and Stevenson’s versatility. Their defense, 10th in points allowed (20.4 per game), excels at generating pressure, with edge rusher Keion White (7.5 sacks in 2024) leading the charge.

The Steelers’ offense, ranked 13th in yards (344.6 per game in 2024), balances Wilson’s passing with Harris’s ground game. Their defense, anchored by T.J. Watt (12 sacks in 2024), is among the NFL’s best at forcing turnovers. Key battles to watch include:

• Patriots’ O-line vs. Steelers’ D-line: Pittsburgh’s Watt and Alex Highsmith will target New England’s tackles to disrupt Maye’s rhythm.
• George Pickens vs. Christian Gonzalez: New England’s rising corner must contain Pickens to limit Pittsburgh’s explosive plays.
• Turnover Battle: Pittsburgh’s +5 turnover margin (sixth in NFL) faces New England’s +2 margin, making ball security critical.

Weather in Pittsburgh on September 21 could be a factor, with forecasts predicting partly cloudy skies, temperatures around 68°F, and a 10% chance of rain. These conditions may favor Pittsburgh’s run-heavy approach.

Viewing Experience: CBS’s Sunday Afternoon Broadcast

CBS’s broadcast, with Kevin Harlan, Trent Green, and Melanie Collins, delivers a polished viewing experience, blending energetic commentary with sideline insights. The CBS Sports app enhances the experience with live stats, player tracking, and multi-angle replays. Local viewers in Boston and Pittsburgh can tune into WBZ-TV or KDKA-TV, while streaming services like Paramount+ and YouTube TV offer flexibility for cord-cutters. NFL+ is perfect for out-of-market fans, providing live audio and mobile streaming.

To optimize your viewing, test your streaming setup in advance and ensure a stable internet connection for HD quality. Pair your watch party with team-themed snacks and beverages to capture the game-day vibe.

Why This Game Matters

This Week 3 clash carries significant implications for both teams. A Patriots win would signal their rebuilding efforts are ahead of schedule and boost their confidence against a playoff-caliber opponent. For the Steelers, a victory would reinforce their AFC North dominance and provide momentum for their postseason push. The game also showcases two fanbases known for their unwavering loyalty, with Pittsburgh’s Terrible Towels and New England’s diehard supporters creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Fan Tips: How to Prepare

• Get Your Gear: Show your team pride with Patriots or Steelers apparel from Fanatics. From Drake Maye jerseys to T.J. Watt hoodies, there’s gear for every fan.
• Watch Party Setup: Set up your Paramount+ or CBS Sports app early to avoid technical issues. A large screen and surround sound can elevate the experience.
• Stay Connected: Follow @Patriots and @Steelers on social media for pregame content, live updates, and highlights. The NFL app offers real-time stats and exclusive content.
• Betting Insights: Per DraftKings, the Steelers are favored at -160, with the Patriots at +135. The over/under is set at 46.5 points, suggesting a competitive, moderate-scoring game.

The Patriots vs. Steelers Week 3 matchup is a must-watch AFC showdown, blending tradition, young talent, and playoff implications. Whether you’re cheering from Acrisure Stadium or watching on CBS, this game promises intense action and memorable moments. Secure your tickets, don your team colors, and get ready for a Sunday afternoon filled with NFL excitement.