Rodgers Honors Tomlin After Steelers Beat Colts 34 to 22

Aaron Rodgers led the Pittsburgh Steelers to a 34-22 victory over the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium on Oct. 11, 2026, delivering one of his strongest performances of the season while paying tribute to former head coach Mike Tomlin. The quarterback completed 22 of 31 passes for 235 yards and three touchdowns without an interception as Pittsburgh secured its first double-digit victory of the campaign.

According to sports.yahoo.com, Rodgers also acknowledged Tomlin during his postgame news conference by wearing a shirt bearing the abbreviation DGBTTF, which stands for a defensive instruction frequently used by the former coach.

Rodgers explained that the shirt referenced Tomlin rather than serving as a message to Indianapolis' defense.

"No it's not a warning," Rodgers said. "It's an ode to Mike T. He used to always say, 'don't get beat to the flat.'"

The performance offered a contrast to Pittsburgh's recent offensive struggles. Rodgers was sacked five times in the team's game against the Cleveland Browns, but Indianapolis brought him down only once, giving him more time to locate receivers and execute the passing game.

Rodgers opened against the Colts by completing his first 11 passes. His efficient start and three touchdown throws helped Pittsburgh earn its first two-score win since Week 15 of the 2025 season, according to the report.

The Steelers also overcame personnel problems on offense. Indianapolis entered the matchup without Michael Pittman Jr., who had been placed on injured reserve because of a foot injury. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, lost Roman Wilson and Ben Skowronek for the second half because of hand and calf injuries, respectively.

Jaylen Warren, Pat Freiermuth and Germie Bernard contributed to Pittsburgh's offensive production, while the offensive line held up against Indianapolis' defensive front. The collective performance gave the Steelers a stronger foundation as they pursue a place in the AFC North race or a Wild Card position.

Tomlin's connection to Pittsburgh also remained visible away from the field following his departure after 19 seasons. His wife, fashion designer and entrepreneur Kiya Tomlin, highlighted that continuing relationship through a design inspired by the team's iconic Terrible Towel.

Kiya shared her Terrible Towel Dress on Instagram in connection with the Steelers' annual fashion show, Steelers Style. Her accompanying message reflected on nearly two decades of involvement in the event and her family's enduring ties to the city.

"After 19 wonderful years co-chairing the Steelers Fashion Show with my friend, Mrs. Greta Rooney, designing the Terrible Towel Dress this year feels especially meaningful. Although our relationship with the Steelers looks a little different, Pittsburgh will always be home in our hearts, and I know we'll always be part of the Steelers family. I'm so grateful to @gretakro to have had another opportunity to bring a little fashion to this iconic Pittsburgh tradition."

Her message also recognized Greta Rooney, the wife of Steelers president Art Rooney II, for helping maintain the family's participation in the longstanding event. Steelers Style brings together players, relatives and organization members while raising money for charitable causes.

Mike Tomlin announced on Jan. 13, 2026, that he would step down as Pittsburgh's head coach. His tenure included a Super Bowl XLIII championship, eight AFC North titles and 13 playoff appearances. He also never finished a season with a losing record.

His departure followed a 30-6 playoff loss to the Houston Texans, ending a coaching tenure that began in 2007. Tomlin subsequently became a studio analyst for NBC Sports' Football Night in America, while his family's continued involvement in Steelers traditions demonstrated that their connection to Pittsburgh remained in place.