The 2002 Pittsburgh Steelers season was highlighted by the team clinching the inaugural AFC North division title with a 10-5-1 record. Led by Comeback Player of the Year Tommy Maddox and Pro Bowlers Hines Ward and Joey Porter, the team showcased great resilience by overcoming a 1-3 start to secure a thrilling 36-33 comeback victory over the Cleveland Browns in the Wild Card round. The 2003 Pittsburgh Steelers season featured strong individual performances, highlighted by Hines Ward earning his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection and Alan Faneca being named First-team All-Pro. Despite a 6-10 record, the team remained competitive behind a top-ten defense in total yards allowed and celebrated a significant milestone when Jerome Bettis moved into the top ten on the NFL's all-time rushing list. The season also saw the emergence of rookie safety Troy Polamalu, who provided a glimpse into the team's future defensive dominance.