EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – On Oct. 14, 1991, Matt Bahr kicked a 44-yard field goal with four seconds remaining in the game to give the Giants a 23-20 victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Three Rivers Stadium. Thirty-three years and 13 days later, it remains the Steelers' most recent Monday Night Football loss at home.
That is just one of the obstacles - both historic and recent – the Giants will encounter when these two storied franchises square off tomorrow night in Acrisure Stadum, where the Steelers are 14-0 on Monday night.
The 5-2 Steelers have won their last two games by a combined 41 points while scoring 69 points, and they are second in the NFL in scoring defense. Pittsburgh also has a history of success overall and particularly on Monday night. Giants coach Brian Daboll will face the Steelers for the 18th time in his 24 NFL seasons.
"I've got a lot of respect for how they've done things for a long time, ever since I've been in the league, just getting ready to play them," Daboll said. "Well coached, play tough, play physical, have a style that they play with, and then the atmosphere is one of the best when you go there and play at their stadium. Tough place to play and a very tough opponent."
The 2-5 Giants scored just one touchdown while losing their last two games, to Cincinnati and Philadelphia. But while the Giants are 0-4 in MetLife Stadium, they have played much better on the road, where they are 2-1 and have recorded their three highest scoring totals of the season – 29 and 21 in victories in Seattle and Cleveland, and 18 at Washington.
"I do like playing on the road," said quarterback Daniel Jones, wo threw two touchdown passes and no interceptions in each game the Giants were visitors this season. "I've always liked playing on the road, even back to college or high school. I think that's probably pretty common with a lot of guys, playing on the road and going into someone else's stadium. But I don't think that's what's going on (regarding the Giants' different fortunes at home and on the road). I think you just got to play better across the board."
The Giants have scored more points in every one of their road games than in any of their four home games. They average 7.7 points at home and 22.7 points outside of New Jersey.
"No, I don't have a theory on it," Jones said. "I am excited to play Pittsburgh this week at Pittsburgh. We got to win more games at home, got to win more games on the road. We got to score more points. That's what we're thinking about."
"I wouldn't speak for everybody else, but for me it's like a '(screw) it' attitude (on the road)," said linebacker Brian Burns. "You're going into a hostile environment. Pretty much we're all we got, whoever came off that plane. So that's kind of my attitude going into it. I kind of like to hear the (trash) talking and stuff from the fans."
View photos of the history between the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Ward Cuff (14) of the New York Giants kicking a 23-yard field goal in the 2nd quarter of game with the Pittsburgh Steelers at the Polo Grounds in New York City, Oct. 20, 1940. Giant Players are Tuffy Leemans (4) holding ball; Doug Older Shaw (39); Leland Shaffer (20) and John McLaughry (17). Steelers are: Everett Fisher (8); John Woudenberg (36), Frank Sullivan (18), and John Noppenberg (50). Giants beat Steelers 12 to 0. (AP Photo)
Chuck Conerly, New York Giant freshman back who set a new passing record in National football league, stands beside Giant coach Steve Owen during an anxious moment in Giant-Pittsburgh Steeler game on Dec. 5, 1948. (AP Photo)
Ken Strong, left, New York Giants football team back, receives two suitcases from Bert Bell, National Football League Commissioner, during ceremonices celebrating "Ken Strong Day" at the Polo Grounds in New York, November 24, 1946. In addition to the suitcases, Strong received from fans behind him several thousand dollar bonds and other assorted gifts.Standing left to right, are; Ken Strong, Bert Bell, Herman J. Bergasse, chairman of the Ken Strong Fans Committee; and Irving Cohen, vice chairman. The Giants defeated the Pittssurch Steelers, 7-0. (AP Photo)
Aldo "Buff" Donelli, squatting, appears for the first time as coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers during a game against the New York Giants in Pittsburgh, Pa., Oct. 5, 1941. Donelli gave up his coaching position at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh to take over the pro Steelers from Bert Bell. (AP Photo/Bill Allen)
New York Giants Hall of Fame safety Emlen Tunnell (45) and safety Jim Patton (20) defend a pass intended for Pittsburgh Steelers halfback Ray Matthews (25) during an NFL game in Pittsburgh, Pa., Nov. 4, 1956. The Giants defeated the Steelers 17-14. (AP Photo/Pro Football Hall of Fame)
New York Giants halfback Bosh Pritchard (35) is aided by effective blocking as he goes through an opening for a 6 yard gain in first quarter of National Football League game with Pittsburgh Steelers at Polo Grounds in New York City, Dec. 2, 1951. Giant guard Duke Maronic (67) takes out a Steeler at left. Other identifiable player is Giant quarterback Chuck Conerly (42). (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Coach Steve Owen, second from left, of the New York Giants football team, huddles with some of his star players during a practice session at the Polo Grounds in New York, Oct. 10, 1950. Left to right are: James White, tackle and captain; coach Owen; Bill Swiacki, end; Joe Scott, back; Ellery Williams, end; and Charles Conerly, back. The Giants, the only unbeaten team in the NFL so far this year and out in front in their division with a 3-0 record, play the Pittsburgh Steelers in New York on Oct. 15. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Frank Gifford, New York Giant halfback is brought down by bevy of Pittsburgh Steelers after taking pass good for 11-yard gain in second period at Yankee Stadium, New York City, on Nov. 15, 1959. Pass was from Giant quarterback Don Heinrich. Identifiable Steelers are Jack McCall (20, left), Dean Derby (27) and Dick Campbell (66). Steelers won 14-9 in last two minutes to drop Giants into first place tie with Cleveland in eastern conference of National Football League. (AP Photo)
Halfback Joe Geri, of the Pittsburgh Steelers, despite the would-be tackler clinging on his back drives for eight yards through a hole in the New York Giants line in a National League opener in Pittsburgh at night on Oct. 1, 1951. Steelers blocker takes out Emlen Tunnell (45) the Giants and Steelers played to 13-13 toe. (AP Photo/Walter Stein)
New York Giants Randy Minniear (27) hits the ground after tackle by unidentified Pittsburgh Steelers defender in the second period at Yankee Stadium, Nov. 20, 1967, New York. Randy picked up nine years on a pass play from Fran Tarkenton, (10) right background. Identifiable Pittsburgh players are Chuck Hinton (64) and Bob Hohn (29). The Giants won the National Football League game 28-20. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giants Del Shofner (85) balances a Y.A. Title pass on his fingertip in Pittsburgh Steeler end zone as Steeler's Brady Keys (26) makes flying effort to break up play in second period of game at New York's Yankee Stadium on Nov. 19, 1961. Giants won, 42-21, to move into first place in Eastern Conference of National Football League. (AP Photo)
A fan at Yankee Stadium in New York City scoops up a stray football during game between the Giants and the Steelers, Dec. 15, 1963. The Giants won, 33-17. (AP Photo)
New York Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle (14) is shown in action during game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Yankee Stadium in New York City on Dec. 15, 1963. The Giants won the game 33-17 to take the Eastern Conference Championship of the National Football League. (AP Photo)
New York Giants' flanker back Frank Gifford (16) snares a pass during game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Yankee Stadium, Dec. 15, 1963. (AP Photo)
New York Giant Tommy Crutcher (56) face masks two players from the Pittsburgh Steelers at the same time during a game on October 12,1969 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The New York Giant beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 10-7. Tommy Crutcherr played for 8 season with 2 different teams.(David Durochik via AP)
Frank Gifford (16) of the New York Giants reaches for a pass Sept. 30, 1962 thrown by Y.A. Tittle in the third quarter of game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Gifford caught the pass and went over for a touchdown to give the Giants a 24-20 lead, they never relinquished., en route to a 31-27 victory. Play covered 27 yards. Stellers defender is Clendon Thomas. (AP Photo/dm)
Aaron Thomas of the New York Giants does a headstand after taking a touchdown pass of about 45 yards from quarterback Fran Tarkenton in the second quarter of the on Nov. 19, 1967 National Football League game in New York. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle (14) is shown in action during game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Yankee Stadium in New York City on Dec. 15, 1963. The Giants won the game 33-17 to take the Eastern Conference Championship of the National Football League. (AP Photo)
Del Shofner, (85), New York Giants' end, grabs Y.A. Tittles' pass for touchdown at 41st-yard line in first quarter of game with Steelers at New York's Yankee Stadium on Dec. 15, 1963. At left is Willie Daniels, defensive halfback of Pittsburgh Steelers. (AP Photo)
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Gary Ballman (85) eludes New York Giants safety Dick Lynch (22) and fumbles the football while headed to the end zone during an NFL game in New York, Dec. 16, 1963. The Giants defeated the Steelers 33-17. (AP Photo/Pro Football Hall of Fame)
New York Giants running back Doug Kotar, left, rolls over as he retains possession of the ball after being brought down by Pittsburgh Steelers Jack Ham in the first quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford Saturday, Aug. 19, 1978. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
New York Giants defensive tackle Roland Lakes (76) stops Pittsburgh Steeler running back Preston Pearson, at left in mid air, at 31-yard line in the fourth quarter of NFL Exhibition Game, in New York's Yankee Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 13, 1971. The Giants Carl Lockhart (43) lower right, assists in play. Steelers won the game, 20-3 (AP Photo/ John Lindsay)
Harry Carson of the New York Giants chases Pittsburgh Steelers' running back Franco Harris (32) in first quarter action in Pittsburgh, Aug. 11, 1979. (AP Photo)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Preston Pearson (26) stretches for an 8-yard gain around right end in first quarter action, Aug. 27, 1970 in Pittsburgh again at New York Giants. Flying in behind Pearson is Giants defensive back Carl Lockhart (43) who knocked Pearson out of bounds. Steelers scored their first touchdown of the game in the next series of downs. (AP Photo/Harry Cabluck)
Pittsburgh rookie quarterback Terry Bradshaw covers a bobbled handoff in the second quarter of game with the New York Giants, Friday, August 29, 1970, Pittsburgh, Pa. The 21-year-old Bradshaw, last winter draft choice led the Steelers to a 21-6 exhibition victory. (AP Photo)
Quarterback Randy Johnson (11) of the New York Giants sets to pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1973. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Pittsburgh Steelers nose tackle Gary Lunn (67) gets double teamed during the NFL football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants on December 21, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 28-10 . (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants Joe Morris, center, cuts between Pittsburgh Steelers Donnie Shell, left, and Rick Woods, right, as he runs nine yards for a touchdown during first quarter NFL action, Dec. 21, 1985, at Giants Stadium, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
New York Giants defensive end Eric Dorsey (77) prepares for a play during an NFL preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in East Rutherford, NJ, Aug. 20, 1988. The Giants defeated the Steelers 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Karl Nelson (63) prepares for a play during an NFL preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in East Rutherford, NJ, Aug. 20, 1988. The Giants defeated the Steelers 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants tight end Zeke Mowatt (84) leaps in the air for a 2-yard touchdown pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL preseason game in East Rutherford, NJ, Aug. 20, 1988. The Giants defeated the Steelers 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster (52) blocks as running back Walter Abercrombie (34) leaps over New York Giants linebacker Abraham (51) during the game in East Rutherford, NJ, Aug. 20, 1988. The Giants defeated the Steelers 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Abraham (51) hits Pittsburgh Steelers running back Walter Abercrombie (34) in the air as he stops the back near the line of scrimmage during the NFL preseason football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Aug. 20, 1988 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Giants won the game 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants center Bart Oates (65) pass blocks during the NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Dec. 21, 1985 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 28-10. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver John Stallworth, left, is upended by New York Giants Pete Shaw as Shaw breaks up the play for an incomplete pass in the first quarter at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Aug. 21, 1982. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
An unidentified man sits on top of the backstop of Three Rivers Stadium during Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New York Giants' game, Aug. 30, 1985. The man climbed out on a guide wire on the stadium's fifth level, and managed to climb safely to the ground. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) breaks past Pittsburgh Steelers Robin Cole (56) at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 21, 1985. Giants won 28-10. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Lawrence Taylor, (56), is hauled down by Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster, (52), after recovering a fumble by Steeler quarterback Mark Malone during the third quarter of NFL exhibition game in Pittsburgh at night on Friday, August 31, 1985. The Giants won the game 24-14. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) works his way around a blocker during the NFL game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 21, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 28-10. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) throws a pass during the NFL football game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants on August 25, 1984 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 16-9. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) chases the action during the NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on August 30, 1986 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 17-3. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants defensive ends Casey Merrill and Leonard Marshall during the Giants 28-10 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 21, 1985 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants wide receiver Arthur Marshall (83) pulls in a pass in front of Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Rod Woodson (26) during the first quarter action, Oct. 23, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer smiles after defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 30-10 Sunday, Dec. 10, 2000, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/John T. Greilick)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) breaks away from Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Levon Kirkland (99) and Scott Chad (30) as he runs for 23 yards in the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 10, 2000, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Osi Umenyiora #72 of the New York Giants tackles Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants talks with offensive coordinator John Hufnagel during a timeout against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants throws a Hail Mary pass to close out the first half against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
William Joseph #94 of the New York Giants hits Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Will Peterson #24 of the New York Giants holds the ball after breaking up a pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Fred Robbins #98 and Carlos Emmons #51 of the New York Giants sack Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants meets with Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) scrambles for 13 yards and a first down during the second quarter as Giants center Shaun O'Hara (6) blocks Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Chris Hoke (76) and Steelers defensive end Aaron Smith (91) hits the turf Saturday, Dec. 18, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers beat the Giants, 33-30. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Pittsburgh Steelers James Farrior (51) tackles New York Giants Ike Hilliard (88) in the first half Saturday Dec. 18, 2004 at Giant Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.The Steelers won the game 33-30. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Osi Umenyiora #72 of the New York Giants tackles Jerome Bettis #36 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey dives to make a touchdown catch as Pittsburgh Steelers safety Russell Stuvaints (33) looks on during the first quarter Saturday, Dec. 18, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants gets pressured out of the pocket against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants looks for a receiver against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Tom Coughlin head coach of the New York Giants looks on from the sideline against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Verron Haynes #34 of the Pittsburgh Steelers gets tackled by Will Allen #25 and Carlos Emmons #51 of the New York Giants during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Tom Coughlin head coach of the New York Giants looks on from the sideline against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Frank Walker #41 of the New York Giants returns an interception against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants takes the field before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants celebrates a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants calls signals at the line against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Jeremy Shockey #80 of the New York Giants jaws with Chris Hope #28 of the Pittsburgh Steelers after his helmet was knocked off after a catch during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
The New York Giants prepare to take the field before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers throws a pass against the New York Giants during an NFL football game on Dec. 18, 2004 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers defeated the Giants 33-30. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer, left, dives, trying for a first down after making a catch, as Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Deshaea Townsen defends in the first quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008. Toomer came up a yard short. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass over linebacker Pittsburgh Steelers LeMarr Woodley (56) during the third quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. New York won 21-14.(AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants' Matthias Kiwanuka, right, grabs Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger just before Roethlisberger got off an incomplete pass off in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008. The Giants beat the Steelers 21-14. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
New York Giants defensive tackle Justin Tuck, top, and defensive end Matthias Kiwanuka, bottom, sack Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008. The Giants won 21-14.(AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
New York Giants running back Derrick Ward, bottom, runs as Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu gets a hand on his helmet in the second quarter of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer (81) pulls in a pass as Pittsburgh Steelers' Tyrone Carter (23) defends during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. The Giants won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor (24) closes in as New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress (17) turns upfield after making a reception during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. New York won 21-14.(AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants Eli Manning (10) throws a touchdown pass over Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Larry Foote (50) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. The Giants won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants fans cheer their team as the Giants leave Heinz Field after beating the Pittsburgh Steelers 21-14 in an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) runs past Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Casey Hampton (98) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. New York won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning leaves the field after the Giants' 21-14 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants' James Butler (37) and Kenny Phillips celebrate following Phillips' interception against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. New York won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants safety Kenny Phillips (21) intercepts a pass intended for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Limas Sweed during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. New York won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants tackle Will Beatty (65) blocks for Ahmad Bradshaw (44) as Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison (92) makes the tackle during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) runs with the ball after making a catch during a week 9 football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) runs with the ball after making a catch during a week 9 football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants tight end Martellus Bennett (85) makes a catch during a week 9 football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) reacts after the Giants defense stopped a fake field goal attempt by Pittsburgh Steelers during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Steelers won the game 24-20. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) celebrates after sacking Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) takes a bow after sacking Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) for a -9 yard loss in the first quarter during the NFL week 9 regular season football game on Sunday Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Steelers won the game 24-20. (AP Photo / Jim Mahoney)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) celebrates a sack of Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) during a week 9 football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Andre Brown (35) gains and leaps for 8 yards, tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers corner back Ike Taylor (24) during the NFL week 9 regular season football game on Sunday Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Steelers won the game 24-20. (AP Photo / Jim Mahoney)
New York Giants linebacker Michael Boley (59) returns a fumble for a touchdown during a week 9 football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) is sacked for a -9 yard loss in the first quarter by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the NFL week 9 regular season football game on Sunday Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Steelers won the game 24-20. (AP Photo / Jim Mahoney)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster (23) runs back an interception during the second half of an NFL football game as Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace (17) gives chase, Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Giants during opening ceremonies prior to the NFL week 9 regular season football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, NJ The Steelers won the game 24-20. (AP Photo / Jim Mahoney)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) and Osi Umenyiora (72) celebrate a fumble returned for a touchdown by Michael Boley during the first half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) sacks Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) gets past Pittsburgh Steelers free safety Mike Mitchell (23) after a catch during the second half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) visit after an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. The Steelers won 24-14. (AP Photo/Jared Wickerham)
New York Giants running back Paul Perkins (28) spins out of a tackle during the first half of an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell (26) is tackled by New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) and linebacker Jonathan Casillas, left, during the first half of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. (AP Photo/Jared Wickerham)
New York Giants tight end Will Tye (45) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Cortez Allen (28) during the first half of an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. (AP Photo/Jared Wickerham)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Mike Hilton (28) during the second quarter of an NFL football game Monday, Sept. 14, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Although the Giants have played well on the road, they have not been at their best at night. A victory against Green Bay last Dec. 11 broke their eight-game losing streak on Monday nights.
The Giants' 54-year record on Monday night is 26-47-1, including 16-32-1 on the road.
Pittsburgh has enjoyed long-term success on Monday nights. In addition to the home winning streak noted above, the Steelers are 53-25 on Monday Night Football, a .680 percentage that is the NFL's second-best record behind Seattle (30-13, .698). The Seahawks have played have as many Monday night games as the Steelers.
The Steelers are 30-5 at home on Monday, a .857 percentage that is the league's best.
Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin is 20-3 (.897) on Monday Night Football, the finest record for any head coach with at least 15 games.
The Steelers have won their last four Monday night games.
More importantly to Daboll and his assistant coaches, they present a formidable challenge in all three units.
Offensively, quarterback Russell Wilson made his season debut last week and led Pittsburgh to season highs in points (37) and yards (409). The Steelers put up 264 yards through the air with Wilson after averaging 167.5 yards with Justin Fields under center. Najee Harris has rushed for more than 100 yards in two straight games.
The Steelers have scored in the final minute of the first half five times in seven games this season.
T.J. Watt has led the NFL in sacks three of the last four seasons and tops the team with 4.5 this year. Tackle Cameron Heyward, linebacker Alex Highsmith, and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick are the among the premier players at their positions. The Steelers held Jets running backs Breece Hall and Braelon Allen to 42 combined yards last week.
Pittsburgh has outscored its opponents, 104-36, in the second half and has not allowed a third quarter point all season.
"It seems like every meeting that I've had with coaches that have been part of the staff, it's almost the same meeting (about the Steelers)," Daboll said. "Different faces, but the same meeting relative to the toughness that that team plays with, the grit that they play with, how they control the line of scrimmage on both sides, run the football, use the action game. Defensively, it's just plug and play. You've seen with these players, it's just the next guy up. T.J. (Watt) and Heyward are unbelievable football players, but there's a style in which they play with that is physical and aggressive."
That includes the special teams. Pittsburgh has what Tomlin calls a "block culture." Pittsburgh has blocked two field goals and a punt in the last three games and would have had two blocks last week vs. the Jets if not for a questionable penalty called on Fitzpatrick. Their 11 blocked kicks since the start of the 2021 season are the most in the NFL, one more than Dallas over that same span. No other team has more than seven in that period.
But despite playing an excellent opponent in a hostile environment, the Giants could be at their best tomorrow night.
"It's just so happened this year that we've played better on the road than we have at home," wide receiver Darius Slayton said. "Obviously, we want to play better at home. That's the fun part, is being able to play in front of your own fans and score and be able to celebrate with your 70,000-plus strong. But obviously, this week we're on the road again. So hopefully, we do continue to play at a high level on the road. That will bode well for us.''
