Steelers 18, Vikings 3

Total domination.

The Steelers made the Metrodome their home today by beating the Minnesota Vikings in every aspect of the game. This was a game between two playoff-caliber teams but the Steelers were the only team to show up and play like it belonged in the playoffs, forcing three Viking turnovers, sacking Brad Johnson twice, and forcing a safety.

The Vikings had an excuse for their sloppy play – four Vikings were charged this week in the now-infamous Love Boat party – but quarterback Brad Johnson denied that theory, saying, “Our focus was great all week. I don't think that had anything to do with it.”

Maybe the Vikings just aren’t that good.

The Vikings had a six-game winning streak coming into this game, but it was primarily against teams with losing records – St. Louis, Detroit (twice), Cleveland, Green Bay, and the New York football Giants, the only team of the six with a prayer of making the playoffs. Perhaps the Vikings weren’t as stiff a challenge as some had assumed, but the Steelers did not take them lightly and did everything that was necessary for victory.

Next up for the Steelers are the Cleveland Browns. Cleveland has not provided the Steelers with much of a challenge since their rebirth after Art Modell abandoned the city, but the Steelers will have to bring their best nonetheless – one more loss and the playoffs will be nothing more than a far-flung dream.