NFL Pushes Back Steelers-Chiefs Game Over Weather Concerns
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Weather concerns have prompted a time change for this weekend's post-season game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs.
Icy weather conditions and public safety concerns have prompted the NFL to move the game to the evening. Kickoff will now be at 8:20 p.m. on Sunday. Officials say that will give "local authorities more time to clear roads in the area as the weather is expected to improve throughout Sunday."
Kickoff for Sunday's AFC Divisional Playoff game in Kansas City has been moved to 8:20 PM ET. pic.twitter.com/ZaXVPQOCVl
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) January 13, 2017
The NFL says, "The decision to make this time change was made in consultation with state and local officials as well as the Chiefs and the Steelers."
Meanwhile, fans spent the day Friday gearing up for the big game against the Chiefs. They showed their support for the Steelers at a pep rally Friday afternoon in the courtyard of the Allegheny County Courthouse.
Dubbed "#HereWeGo Day" in the City of Pittsburgh, fans chanted, cheered and celebrated as they gathered around the "Steelers Tree" in the courtyard at noon. They were all dressed in black and gold, of course.
There were giveaways and appearances from the Pittsburgh Steeline Drumline, Steely McBeam and former Steelers Dwayne Woodruff and Chris Hoke.
Hoke explained why he believes the black and gold will win the day.
"I like the Steelers' chances, the Chiefs have a revenge factor and that's going to play a major role in this, but once you get into the second quarter it comes down to fundamentals and I believe overall the Steelers are a better football team."
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While many fans are nervous for the game, they agree the Steelers will pull it out in the end.
"I always get nervous before all the games 'cause I just want us to win so badly, and KC got a lot better than when we played them the last time," said one fan.
"I think it's going to be a really tight game because the weather supposed to be really icy, but I think we're going to pull it through," another fan said.
But Woodruff told the crowd the icy conditions could be an advantage to the Steelers, who are used to playing in winter conditions.
Stay with KDKA-TV at 5 & 6 p.m. for John Shumway's full report on this story.