Since the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers first met in 1970, the Steelers have dominated the 26 games played, leading the series 20-6. The solitary loss at home for the Steelers was a 2010 upset. The Jets left Pittsburgh with a 22-17 success that put them back on course for the playoffs when they returned to Pittsburgh for the AFC Championship game. The Steelers won 20-17 in overtime on their way to Super Bowl XLV.
The Steelers won the first meeting between the teams in 1970 with Terry Hanratty leading them to a 21-17 triumph.
The 1972 season saw the Steelers produce their best football to that date.