The Boston Patriots were part of the original AFL when it was formed in 1960. A year after the 1970 merger with the NFL, the team relocated to a new stadium. The Boston organization then decided a name change was needed. They originally decided on the Bay State Patriots, but adverse reaction from fans and the abbreviation to B.S. Patriots, saw the name of New England evolve.
Overall, the Patriots hold a slender edge over the Steelers, winning 17-16, but in Pittsburgh it is the Steelers who lead 12-10.
Before the Patriots drafted Tom Brady in 2000, the Steelers led the series 12-5, but after his arrival the pendulum swung towards the Patriots.