Week 17 didn't matter much last year, but with Baltimore also kicking off at Cincinnati at the same time, the division on the line, this one's as big as it gets.
A Steelers win and a Ravens loss gives Pittsburgh the No. 2 seed in the upcoming playoffs. A Ravens win and/or a Steelers loss gives them the 5-seed and sends them on the road to play the AFC West champion (Oakland or Denver).
Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger will start, but will likely be replaced at some point in the game. The Steelers will want to give his high ankle sprain as much rest as possible, so expect Charlie Batch to stay warm on the sideline.
Speaking of warm...RB Rashard Mendenhall looks to factor into this game in a big way. After shredding the hapless Rams for 116 yards and a touchdown, Mendenhall looks to carry an offense that will be without LG Doug Legursky. Chris Kemoeatu will start at left guard in his place.
Log in, get comfortable and get fired up, there's a lot riding on this one.
Happy New Year from all of us at Behind The Steel Curtain!