Steelers Triumph 24-21 in Emotional Dublin Game Honoring Rooney

Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin delivered an emotional address to his team on the significance of the late Dan M. Rooney just before their first regular-season NFL game in Dublin. The Steelers responded with a thrilling 24-21 victory against the Minnesota Vikings on March 24, 2024, in front of a passionate crowd that included many waving the iconic Terrible Towels.

Tomlin’s speech emphasized the rich legacy of the Rooney family, particularly the contributions of Dan Rooney, who served as the U.S. ambassador to Ireland and was a pivotal figure in the Steelers’ history. Linebacker T.J. Watt remarked on the impact of Tomlin’s words, saying, “We definitely had a chip on our shoulder… to be able to go out there and play Steeler football was huge.”

The Steelers showcased their defensive prowess, recording six sacks, two interceptions, 14 quarterback hits, and 10 tackles for loss throughout the game. Despite a late push by the Vikings, led by quarterback Carson Wentz, the Steelers held on to secure the victory with a crucial play from safety DeShon Elliott, who intercepted a deflected pass in the closing moments. Tomlin reflected on the win, stating, “I know he’s smiling at us today. It’s just an honor to fulfill his vision, to bring NFL football to Dublin.”

Game Day Atmosphere and Celebrations

Designated as a home game for the Steelers, the event drew a crowd of nearly 75,000 fans, predominantly supporting Pittsburgh. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers expressed his excitement about the atmosphere, noting, “The music was great. The fans were cool. The field was pristine.” The celebration included a unique blend of Pittsburgh traditions and Irish culture, with the Clada House Band performing live and both the U.S. and Irish national anthems played before kickoff.

Tight end Connor Heyward shared his thoughts on the importance of the event, stating, “This has always been a dream of his,” referring to Dan Rooney. The emotional connection was palpable, especially during the national anthem performances that highlighted the cultural ties between the two nations.

The day continued with the Steelers playing the “Pittsburgh Polka” before kickoff and a crowd-led singalong to “Zombie” by the Irish band The Cranberries in the fourth quarter. After extending their lead with a field goal, the stadium reverberated with the familiar strains of Styx’s “Renegade,” a staple of Steelers games back home.

A Whirlwind Visit to Ireland

The Steelers’ journey to Ireland was brief yet memorable. Arriving on March 22, the team settled into Carton House, a venue with historical significance, having hosted the Irish national rugby team. They practiced on the same fields shortly after their arrival, ensuring they were prepared for the unique challenges of playing abroad.

Rodgers mentioned his desire for a longer visit, saying, “It was a short trip, but from the moment we landed, the security guys over at the Carton House were hilarious. The Guinness was good in downtown Dublin.” The team was able to explore the vibrant city during their downtime, adding to the overall experience.

Despite some challenges, including an incident involving backup quarterback Skylar Thompson, who was robbed while in Dublin, the team’s spirit remained high. Thompson, though injured and not playing, was present at the game, showing his commitment to the team.

Reflecting on the event, Rodgers confidently stated that Dublin should host more NFL games, declaring, “100 percent. Yes.” The successful matchup not only honored a beloved figure in the Steelers’ history but also showcased the warm reception of NFL football in Ireland, leaving an indelible mark on players and fans alike.