Hollywood Icon and Lifelong Steelers Supporter Passed Away at 89, Entire Steelers Community Mourns

Game Overview Matchup: Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1) at New England Patriots (1-1) Time: 1:00 PM (Eastern Daylight Time), Sunday, September 21, 2025 Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA TV Channel: CBS (KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh) Context: Both teams enter with a 1-1 record, making this a pivotal early-season game to build momentum. This is a true road test for the Steelers. Option 1: The Live Experience at Gillette Stadium If you decide to make the trip to support the team in person, here is everything you need to know. A. Traveling from Pittsburgh to Foxborough Driving (Most economical option): Distance: Approximately 560 miles. Travel Time: About 9-10 hours of continuous driving, not including stops. You should plan to leave early Saturday morning. Estimated Cost: $100 - $150 for gasoline. Flying (Fastest option): Airports: Fly from Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) or T. F. Green Airport in Providence (PVD). Providence is slightly closer to Gillette. Travel Time: Approximately 1.5-hour flight, plus time for airport security and travel from the airport to Foxborough (about 45-60 minutes). Total travel time is around 4-5 hours. Cost: Airfare will be expensive; book several weeks in advance for the best prices. B. Guide to Gillette Stadium Tickets: At this point, you can only purchase tickets through secondary markets. Reputable Sites: Ticketmaster's Official Resale, StubHub, SeatGeek. Tip: Use the apps for these sites to get e-tickets (QR codes) on your phone. Take a screenshot of the barcode in case you lose internet connection at the stadium. Parking & Tailgating (Very Important): Parking Lots: Gillette Stadium has a massive parking system, but it will be very crowded. Stadium-owned lots typically open 4 hours before kickoff. Cost: Expect to pay between $50 - $80 for a car. Payment is cashless. Tailgating: It is permitted and an essential part of the gameday culture. You can bring grills (gas grills are preferred), food, and drinks. Be sure to read the specific tailgating regulations on the official Gillette Stadium website, especially the rules regarding open flames and charcoal. Tip: Arrive at least 4 hours before the game to get a good parking spot and have time to enjoy the atmosphere. Entering the Stadium: Clear Bag Policy: This is a mandatory NFL rule. You are only allowed to bring: A clear plastic bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12". A small clutch bag no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". They will not allow you to bring in regular backpacks or purses. Payment: Gillette Stadium is a cashless venue. Ensure you have a credit/debit card or mobile payment methods. Prohibited Items: Outside beverages, bottles, professional cameras, weapons, etc. Check the full list on the stadium's official website. C. Around the Stadium Patriot Place: Located right next to the stadium is a massive shopping, dining, and entertainment complex. You can visit before or after the game. It features numerous restaurants and bars, the Patriots ProShop, and the team's hall of fame.   Option 2: "Fire Up" with Steelers Nation Right in Pittsburgh If you're staying in the city, here is how to get the most complete gameday experience. A. Detailed TV Viewing Plan Main Channel: KDKA-TV (CBS). Pre-game Shows: National: CBS's "The NFL Today" begins at 12:00 PM, providing analysis of all the day's games. Local: KDKA-TV will have its own pre-game show, usually starting around 11:30 AM, focusing entirely on the Steelers. Announcers: Depending on the game's national appeal, you might get CBS's number one broadcast team of Jim Nantz and Tony Romo, or another regional broadcast crew. B. The Best Places to Watch the Game in Pittsburgh Get out and immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere. Here are a few well-known suggestions: McFadden's Restaurant and Saloon (North Shore): Located right near Acrisure Stadium, this is one of the most energetic spots on gameday. It gets very crowded and loud. Southern Tier Brewery Pittsburgh (North Shore): Another fantastic option near the stadium with a large space, plenty of TVs, and excellent craft beer. Carson City Saloon (South Side): A classic sports bar in the lively South Side neighborhood that is always packed with Steelers fans. The Bulldog Pub (Morningside): If you want a slightly more intimate but still passionate atmosphere, this is a great choice with delicious food. C. Analysis and Betting Odds Rivalry History: The Steelers-Patriots rivalry was one of the AFC's defining matchups in the 21st century, shaped by Tom Brady and Ben Roethlisberger. Although both legends have retired, the intensity of the matchup remains. Key Matchups: Steelers Offense vs. Patriots Defense: The Patriots have a formidable defense with 9 sacks through two games. The Steelers' offensive line will have to protect its quarterback well. T.J. Watt vs. Patriots Offense: The pressure from T.J. Watt (if healthy) will be the key to slowing down the opponent's offensive rhythm. Betting Odds (for reference): Because the Patriots are playing at home, they will likely be the "favorite." A sample betting line might look like this: Spread: Patriots -2.5 (The Patriots must win by 3 or more points for a bet on them to win). Moneyline: Patriots (-140), Steelers (+120). Over/Under (Total Points): 43.5. You can check the exact odds on sites like DraftKings or FanDuel closer to the weekend. Hopefully, this ultra-detailed breakdown helps you create the perfect plan for this Sunday. Here We Go, Steelers!