NBC’s broadcast of “Football Night in America” confirmed that the scheduled kickoff time of 8:20 p.m. ET would be pushed back by approximately 30 minutes. However, the weather had different intentions. As reported by ESPN’s Todd Archer, a new lightning strike at 9 p.m. initiated yet another mandatory delay of 30 minutes, potentially moving the kickoff to around 9:50 p.m.
The National Weather Service painted a grim forecast, issuing a severe thunderstorm watch for western Pennsylvania, including Allegheny County. Wind gusts could reach 23 mph, and thunderstorms are anticipated to linger until 10 p.m. In light of the inclement weather, stadium officials have advised fans to seek shelter as torrential rain pelts the Acrisure Stadium field.
Within the stadium’s confines, players are adjusting to the unforeseen pause. NBC’s Melissa Stark has reported that both locker rooms have been stocked with sandwiches and wraps—far from the elaborate pre-game feasts these athletes typically expect. Meanwhile, the stadium stands as a solitary beacon amidst the darkness of Pittsburgh, maintaining its power while the surrounding downtown area succumbs to blackout.
This isn’t the Steelers’ inaugural encounter with turbulent weather. A game last December against the Arizona Cardinals extended by two hours due to similar circumstances. Tonight’s clash between the Steelers vs Cowboys is set to deliver its own share of tension, with KDKA’s radar displaying a formidable storm system parked over the Steel City.
The stakes are soaring for both teams once the contest resumes. Pittsburgh is eager to recover from their initial defeat of the season and solidify their position atop the AFC North. Meanwhile, Dallas, fresh from a brief respite following their victory over the Giants, is in pursuit of consecutive wins, despite the absence of key players such as Micah Parsons and Demarcus Lawrence.
Latest Update from NBC (9:45 PM ET): Officials have announced that players will return to the field at 9:25 PM, with kickoff now scheduled for 9:45 PM. However, as thunder continues to rumble across Steel City, this Sunday night showdown could very well extend into the early hours of Monday.