Grading the Steelers:

Jack McCurry, who is in his 26th season as the head coach at North Hills High School. His teams have won four WPIAL titles.

Grading the Broncos:

Ron Wabby, who is in his 22nd season as the head coach at Brashear High School. His teams have won five City League championships.

Offense: C

The rebuilt offensive line was ineffective for most of the game. It had difficulty protecting Tommy Maddox and couldn't open any running lanes. But the offense showed a lot of character late in the fourth quarter with a tying scoring drive. But it was too little too late. Good teams usually find a way to win.

Offense: C

Steve Beuerlein replaced injured Jake Plummer, threw two interceptions and did not get much help from the running game in which Clinton Portis rushed for less than 50 yards. It was an offense that was told, "Don't do anything to lose the game." Two bright spots were Beuerlein's two touchdown passes ... one to Shannon Sharpe and the other to Ron Smith.

Defense: A -

An outstanding effort created three turnovers that directly led to six points for the Steelers. When the offense is struggling, the defense has to play well, and for most of game the defense did. What a shame the Steelers couldn't hold on at the end. Still, good teams find ways to win.

Defense: A

It was the defense that rose to the occasion, holding the Steelers to just two field goals after interceptions deep in Denver territory. The Broncos sacked Tommy Maddox seven times, forcing him to run out of the pocket and throw the ball away on numerous occasions. The Steelers' running game was stopped and Denver forced the Steelers to win the game throwing the ball, which they couldn't do. The bottom line was a great defensive game.

Special Teams: B

In a tight game, special teams can often make the difference. Jeff Reed contributed two field goals, but it wasn't enough. The kick coverage units were solid and Josh Miller punted well. In the battle for field position, the special teams were effective. Still, good teams find ways to win. Enough said.

Special Teams: B +

The star of the game was punter Micah Knorr, who kept the Steelers pinned deep in their own territory. The coverage teams were adequate and never let Antwaan Randle El get started. The winning field goal by Jason Elam was the icing on the cake.

Coaching: B

Bill Cowher and his staff had the Steelers well prepared. The offensive line remains a problem. It's a problem with no solution in sight. It's difficult to call plays when the line is struggling. The defensive game plan contained the Broncos and gave the Steelers a chance to win. Although the Steelers lost, it was much better effort by all.

Coaching: C +

With Plummer not being able to play, the offensive game plan was "Let the defense win the game." Coach Mike Shanahan knew the Steelers' defense would be tough on Beuerlein and he didn't take many chances with the offense.

Team Score: 84

Team Score: 87

Key

100-95

Super Bowl performance

94-90

Division title contenders

89-80

Wild Card possibility

79-70

Shooting for high draft picks in 2004

69-less

Check waiver wire