Titans clinch best record in AFC with defeat of Steelers, 31-14
Published 12:00 am Monday, December 22, 2008
By Teresa M. Walker
Associated Press
NASHVILLE, Tenn. ó Chris Johnson and LenDale White ran for a score apiece as the Tennessee Titans routed the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-14 in a showdown of the AFC’s best teams.
Tennessee (13-2) clinched the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs in what coach Jeff Fisher called the Titans’ best game this season.
“This was not a statement game by no means,” Fisher said. “It was a momentum game. We needed to build momentum for the playoffs and the bye week by playing well and winning the game. The bonus is the second game here at home.”
Titans linebacker Keith Bulluck, who celebrated by stomping on a “Terrible Towel” at the end, was much more succinct.
“It sets the tone for the playoffs in the AFC,” he said.
The Titans became the first team to top 300 yards against Pittsburgh (11-4) this season.
Rookie Jason Jones, who started for injured defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, had 31/2 sacks and forced Ben Roethlisberger into three fumbles. Michael Griffin came up with two interceptions.
“They did a good job,” Steelers linebacker James Harrison said. “They came out and imposed their will.”