The Pittsburgh Steelers were dominated in nearly every facet of play and lost their grip on playoff position in the AFC in a 36-10 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.
The Steelers failed to score a first-half touchdown for the fifth consecutive game, and failed to score at all in the opening 30 minutes, dropping into a 23-0 hole.
Pittsburgh could not get its offense going, as the Steelers gained just 291 yards of total offense and turned the ball over three times, with Ben Roethlisberger intercepted once and Diontae Johnson and Roethlisberger losing fumbles.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh defense was shredded by a Kansas City offense that either didn’t have or didn’t need its start playmakers. Tight end Travis Kelce missed the game and star receiver Tyreek Hill had just two catches. Running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire left the game early with a collarbone injury.
Instead, it was Derrik Gore and Darrell Williams combining for 98 yards rushing. Gore also caught three passes for 61 yards. Byron Pringle had six catches for 75 yards and two touchdowns. Mecole Hardman had three catches for 31 yards and a score.
The Steelers lost by more than three scores for the second time in a month, following a 31-point loss to the Cincinnati Bengals on Nov. 28.
The Steelers entered the game No. 7 in the AFC Wild Card picture with their fate in their hands, but now must win out and get help to continue their season past Week 18.