MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HANUKKAH!
Happy Holidays: As part of the Steelers Christmas Day game against the Kansas City Chiefs, they will be wearing a custom holiday patch with the NFL shield and candy canes.
The patch was worn in Week 16 by the four teams playing on Christmas Day, and again during the Christmas games.
The Steelers-Chiefs game is part of the NFL Holiday Remix, which features all four teams that played on Saturday, Dec. 21 playing again (Steelers, Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens and Houston Texans).
"The NFL on Christmas has become a holiday staple with families coming together to celebrate and watch NFL games," said Tim Ellis, NFL Executive Vice President of Marketing. "This year, we look forward to the start of a new holiday tradition with Netflix which will be seen around the world, and these holiday-inspired uniform patches are a great touch to mark this special occasion."
Inspiring change: The Steelers have taken part in the NFL's social justice platform, Inspire Change, since it's inception, and for the third straight year the league is presenting an Inspire Change Changemaker Award, which recognizes an individual from every NFL city who is making a difference in their communities through social justice work, either individually or as part of a non-profit organization through education, economic advancement, police-community relations, and criminal justice reform.
The recipient of the Steelers Inspire Change Changemaker Award for 2024 is Carolina Frantz, MSN, RN and the Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Duquesne University's School of Nursing BSN-AID program. She will be honored before today's game, but since she wasn't present, Pittsburgh Mercy accepted a $10,000 donation to them on her behalf.
Frantz learned of the news when she was surprised by outside linebacker Alex Highsmith, who does a lot of community who like Frantz, does work with the homeless population in Pittsburgh.
"I was beyond surprised," said Frantz. "It's super exciting. Honestly, this is stuff I do regularly. People do bigger things too.
"It's shocking I am being chosen to do this because it's just everyday things I like to do and want to do."
Through her volunteer efforts, she has supplied more than 14,000 pairs of socks to the homeless since 2023, working closely with organizations such as Pittsburgh Mercy, Jubilee Kitchen, and Shepherd's Heart Fellowship and Veteran's Home.
"I've always wanted to give back to people," said Frantz. "I'm a people person. I became a nurse because I am a people person. It's fulfilling for me to help other people. That is it. Just be a good person."
She utilizes the garage in her Beaver Falls, Pa., home to organize and manage all of the donations, which the majority come from the clothing company Bombas, making a difference for countless people, as socks are one of the most requested items in shelters nationwide.
"It's really special," said Blayre Holmes-Davis, the Steelers senior director of community relations. "There's a lot of great people in our community who do this work as part of their job. And it's a great opportunity.
"But I think to honor someone who just takes time out of their day to make sure that homeless people have access to socks, food and all the other things that she's been able to do to help streamline a lot of the services for organizations in Pittsburgh that are providing services to our most vulnerable is really important. Especially, she has all of these socks at her home. I think not only being able to work with community organizations to say, how can we streamline this, but how can we distribute 14,000 pairs of socks in our community. Then also to have space in your garage to make sure that you're able to house that.
"It's a great opportunity when we're able to honor people who are CEOs and in charge of different organizations and nonprofits. But it's also really important to make sure that we highlight community members that are taking time out of their day. They don't have to do it. They just do it to give back. They see a need in the community and don't look anywhere else, but say how can I help meet that need. We're really excited to honor her and just to let her know that we see her work and we support her fully."
Frantz has a long history of helping others through the medical profession. Her current role as Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Duquesne University School of Nursing is centered around student support and mentoring of underrepresented students in nursing. She also works as a nurse at Gateway Rehabilitation Center, supporting those experiencing substance use disorders. She worked in various nursing and leadership roles at UPMC for 14 years. She was awarded a Cameo of Caring award in 2016, and a Woman of the Year Award in 2024 from the Cribs for Kids Organization. She served as an improvement specialist, and infection prevention chair during the surge of the COVID-19 pandemic. She participated in state task force initiatives to assist in infection prevention support for long-term care facilities within the Pittsburgh region.
She earned her Associate degree in Nursing at the Community College of Allegheny County, and Baccalaureate and Master's degrees at Carlow University, with a concentration in nursing leadership and education.
Frantz is a founding member and president of The Western Pennsylvania Area Chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses, and often utilizes that network to assist her with the sock distributions.
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Since its launch in 2017, Inspire Change has empowered NFL players to collaborate with team owners, public officials, law enforcement, and community organizations to tackle pressing social justice challenges. Over the years, the NFL Family has contributed over $375 million, supporting 650+ local non-profits, nearly 2,000 player and Legend matching grants, and more than 50 national partners driving meaningful change at scale.
"For the NFL, improving the lives of people across the country in communities we call home and beyond is more than a responsibility; it's a commitment," said Anna Isaacson, Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility. "Inspire Change weeks each December shine a light on the extraordinary efforts of our partners and players while reinforcing our shared mission to foster opportunity and create stronger, more vibrant communities. We're proud to honor and celebrate their dedication and remain committed to advancing this vital work."
Stream on: As part of the Netflix broadcast, comedians Nate Bergatze and Bert Kreischer and WWE Wrestler CM Punk will be on hand. Cake Buds from the series, 'Is it Cake,' will be designing a cake of Acrisure Stadium in the winter on Christmas in the Great Hall. A group from Netflix hit show Squid Game will also be in attendance.
Honoring America: The National Anthem will be sung by Voices of Service, a quartet featuring retired military Veterans. While the National Anthem is being sung, military bases from around the country will be featured as part of the broadcast.
Halftime holiday joy: Curtis Lewis Jr., who is from Aliquippa, Pa., will do a Christmas performance at halftime.
Twirling the towel: The Terrible Towel twirl will be done by Hall of Fame and Motown recording legend Smokey Robinson, who is a Steelers fan.
Caring about the community: The community organization of the game is Teaching is my Favorite Color. Their mission is dedicated to the engagement, support, and inspiration of current and prospective educators and educational leaders of color throughout Western Pennsylvania. They are committed to fostering a vibrant community that prioritizes the recruitment and retention of educators of color, ensuring their meaningful contribution to a brighter future for all students.
Stepping up big: The NFL has partnered with the Maxwell Football Club for a Girls High School Flag Player of the Year from every NFL market, and the Steelers 2024 winner is junior Shayln Brown from the Moon Area Tigers. Brown is being honored during today's game.
Brown was the starting quarterback for Moon since her freshman year, and has also played wide receiver at times during her career. In her sophomore season she led Moon to their first championship title. Moon is on a 27-game winning streak, and she has led them to back-to-back championships, winning 33 of 36 games, in the Steelers High School Girls Flag Spring season.
What's new at Acrisure Stadium: A new season brings changes on the football field, and at Acrisure Stadium, it brings changes off the field as well.
Each year, to make the fan experience better for Steelers Nation, new additions and upgrades are provided to enhance the game day experience.
The changes bring new technology, tasty culinary items, fun features and in-stadium entertainment, all part of the elevated experience you will have during the 2024 Steelers season at Acrisure Stadium.
Before you even enter Acrisure Stadium, stop by the Steel Yard, a fun area located outside of Gate A that gives you the feeling of being in your own backyard, with all of the game day excitement. Admission is free for all guests to enjoy a perfect tailgate spot.
Once you are in stadium, the new look Terrible Towel Wall, located in the FedEx Great Hall, is a must-see pregame. You can learn about the history of the towel and snap some unforgettable photos with the massive 400-square-foot Terrible Towel.
There are also more unique food and beverage options than ever before, including the Miller Lite Renegade Pub, located in the West Main Concourse. The spacious area includes a Pittsburgh mural, large TV screens so you don't miss any action, and a full-service bar.
With technology constantly changing, Acrisure Stadium is staying on the cutting edge, with an Acrisure Stadium mode added to the Steelers mobile app for easy access to stadium maps, parking information, mobile ticketing, and more. And with the need to access details on your phone, as well as capture fun memories in stadium, new ChargeFuze Stations are located throughout the stadium to keep your mobile device charged.
This is just the beginning of what you will enjoy this year at Acrisure Stadium.
For more details, click here.
Hearing from Legends: A live Legends Q & A will take place at the FedEx Great Hall Stage at 11:15 am. Arthur Moats will host it, with his guest Kendrell Bell.
Saluting a hero: The U.S. Steel Salute to Heroes recipient is Airman Jonathan Bradford. Bradford comes from a military family while drove him to join the U.S. Air Force. Bradford is also a City of Pittsburgh Police Officer.
Enter early: Acrisure Stadium Management and the Pittsburgh Steelers are reminding fans to enter the stadium early to ensure they will not miss kickoff.
Fireworks, which will be presented by Zambelli Fireworks, will be set off an hour prior to kickoff and 30 minutes prior to kickoff to serve as reminders for fans to enter Acrisure Stadium so they will not miss all of the pregame activities, including Steelers introductions and kickoff.
Fans are also being reminded of the mobile ticketing process in place at Acrisure Stadium. Prior to coming to Acrisure Stadium, fans should:
• Save their mobile tickets to the digital wallet on their smartphone.
• Make sure their phones are fully charged.
Visit the Official Steelers Pro Shop: Gear up for gameday by visiting the Official Steelers Pro Shop located on Art Rooney Ave at Acrisure Stadium. The Steelers Pro Shop offers a variety of on-field sideline gear, jerseys, hats, terrible towels and more direct from the team.
Remember the Game: No matter if you were waving your Terrible Towel at Acrisure Stadium or in the comfort of your own home, purchase your commemorative ticket to relive the moments of each game of the 2024 season.
-->> **Learn More**
Mobile Ticketing
Ensure your phone is fully charged on gameday. Download your mobile ticket before arriving to Acrisure Stadium. Be sure to access your digital ticket(s) and save to your Apple or Google Wallet before you arrive at Acrisure Stadium.
Cashless on Gameday
For your safety and convenience, we are limiting the number of touchpoints between you and our staff members. Acrisure Stadium is a cashless venue and credit and debit cards are still accepted, as well as Apple and Google Pay.
Clear Bag Policy
To provide a safer environment for the public and significantly expedite fan entry into Acrisure Stadium, the Pittsburgh Steelers will continue to enforce the NFL CLEAR BAG POLICY that limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into the stadium.
Security Screening
You may walk through new state-of-the-art screening machines at certain gates that do not require the removal of personal items (e.g. keys, cell phones, coats or bags). Simply walk through the system unimpeded.
Pregame Activities
Art Rooney Avenue: Celebrate with Steelers Nation on Art Rooney Avenue, home to the Steelers Experience, including photo opportunities, the FedEx Air and Ground Zone, prize giveaways, Hall of Honor Museum display, and more.
Test your speed at the new 40 Yard Dash on Art Rooney Ave!
Location: Along the East Side of the stadium
Time: Open 3 hours prior to kickoff.
Stage AE
Stop by the Official Tailgate Zone of the Pittsburgh Steelers, featuring a live band, giant TVs to watch highlights and games, food and drink specials and contests.
Location: Along North Shore Drive
Time: Opens 4 hours prior to kickoff
FedEx Great Hall
Take advantage of photo opps, watch the live pregame show -Steelers Kickoff, and explore the Steelers Pro Shop with access to concessions all in the FedEx Great Hall.
Location: Enter through East side of Stadium
Time: Pregame Show - 30 minutes prior to kickoff
Steel Yard
Prepare for kickoff at our traditional backyard tailgate experience with your favorite lawn games & Anheuser-Busch products in the Bud Light backyard, or enjoy a cocktail from the brand new Stillhouse mobile hub.
The Steel Yard is also home to larger-than-life photo ops, including the 360-photo booth & #HEREWEGO sign.
Location: Outside of Gate A East on the south end of the stadium
Time: Opens 3 hours prior to kickoff
Gameday Poster Series: Stop by the Steelers Pro Shop to purchase your Gameday Poster while supplies last! Each poster is uniquely designed to represent each of our home games, with a season-long poster available that encapsulates the season!
WATCH/STREAM
- The game broadcast is carried on Netflix (KDKA locally in Pittsburgh). Game coverage begins Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. ET.
- The BetMGM Steelers Kickoff pregame show with Bob Pompeani and former Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch airs at 11:30 a.m. ET on KDKA-TV in the Pittsburgh market. The Neighborhood Ford Store Steelers Xtra Point postgame show with Pompeani and former Steelers defensive lineman Chris Hokes starts immediately following the game on KDKA+.
- Ian Eagle (play-by-play), Nate Burleson (analysis), J.J. Watt (analysis), Melanie Collins (field reporter), and Stacey Dales (field reporter) are on the game call.
- NFL+ Premium gives you the freedom to watch LIVE out-of-market games, LIVE local & primetime Regular Season and Postseason games on your phone or tablet, full & condensed replays of every game, and MORE! Whether you are at the stadium or on-the-go, you will never miss a moment with NFL+. NOTE: NFL+ is only available to users within the United States. For a full description of features, requirements, limitations, and other information, visit NFL+ Support.
- Don't forget all Steelers postgame press conferences are streamed live on Steelers.com, the Steelers Official Mobile App and the team's Official YouTube Channel.
LISTEN
- Steelers Audio Network - Game coverage begins at 1:00 p.m. ET; Pregame programming begins at 9:00 a.m. ET; Postgame coverage starts immediately following the game.
- Rob King (play-by-play), Craig Wolfley (color analyst), Max Starks & Missi Matthews (sideline reporters) are on the call.
- Fans in the Pittsburgh area can listen locally on WDVE 102.5 FM & WBGG 970 AM.
- The Steelers Audio Network will broadcast the game live through our radio affiliates. Click here for a list of our radio affiliates.
- The game broadcast is also carried on Steelers Nation Radio (SNR). SNR is streamed on Steelers.com and the Official Steelers Mobile App. Fans can listen to pregame and postgame programming from anywhere in the world on these platforms. NFL geographical restrictions apply to the game broadcast stream for desktop, mobile web and mobile app users.
- SiriusXM subscribers can listen to Steelers game live. Please visit SiriusXM's Steelers broadcast page for channel details.
EN ESPANOL
Puedes escuchar la transmisión del partido en español en cualquier parte del mundo en steelers.com/espanol desde tu computadora.
- Si estas en México y en el área de Pittsburgh ahora puedes escuchar también desde tu dispositivo móvil y desde el App Oficial de Steelers. Simplemente haz Clic en la esquina superior derecha de la pagina principal del App donde dice "Live Audio" y selecciona español.
- El juego se podrá ver en México por TELEVISA | Canal 9
- Álvaro Martín y Arturo Carlos serán nuestro equipo del Steelers en español este domingo. Martín está en su tercera década de crónica de la NFL y en su sexta temporada como comentarista de Steelers en español. Carlos esta entrando a su sexta temporada como play-by-play de Steelers en Español.
Activa las notificaciones en español del App Oficial de Steelers
Abre la aplicación, haz clic en la esquina inferior derecha en "More," haz clic en "Settings," haz click en la tercera opción "Notifications" y activa el icono en "Español."
IRELAND
Thanks to a partnership between the Steelers and Off The Ball, fans located on the island of Ireland can listen to the official Steelers Audio Network broadcast of the Steelers-Chiefs game. Kickoff is at 6 p.m.
Don't forget to follow the team on its Irish social handles on X, Instagram and TikTok - @SteelersIreland.
GAME PASS INTERNATIONAL
The NFL, in partnership with DAZN, has officially launched Game Pass International for the 2024 season, an opportunity for fans outside of the United States, Canada and China to catch all of the NFL action this season. Subscribers to Game Pass International will be able to access all preseason, regular season and postseason games live. They will also be able to access replays and condensed games on video on demand.
In addition, subscribers will have access to NFL RedZone and NFL Network, both live and on demand. NFL Films/Media will also provide original content and video via an on-demand library.
Content can be watched on all major devices, and fans can sign up today here: NFL GamePass International
The content is available for fans outside of the United States, Canada, China and a handful of Sanctioned Territories.
CONNECT
- Check out Game Day Central on Steelers.com for up to the minute stats and more.
- On the go? Download the Steelers Official Mobile App and follow along with our Game Center that features stats and drive charts.
- Play the YinzChat on the Steelers Official Mobile App prior to each week's game to win prizes.
- Follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat. Don't forget to use #HereWeGo.
- Don't miss live pre and postgame programming on Facebook and YouTube.
- Watch Coach Mike Tomlin's press conference, LIVE immediately following the game, on Steelers.com, the Steelers Official Mobile App, Facebook, X and YouTube.
