The Steelers have announced that no fans will be allowed in attendance for this Sunday night’s matchup against the Cleveland Browns.
In a statement released by Spokesperson Burt Lauten, says they did not receive permission from the state to host fans like they were able to in October and November.
The full statement reads:
“We are disappointed we will not be able to host our season ticket holders and other fans at Heinz Field on Sunday night against the Cleveland Browns in our AFC Wild Card game. We were hoping to receive approval to host fans for the playoffs at a capacity similar to our games in October and November, but unfortunately the state’s orders will only permit 2,500 total people in the building, including players, coaches and staff. This will limit fans in the seating bowl to family and friends of players and the team.”
With no fans in attendance, that basically eliminates any type of home-field advantage for the Steelers.
Last weekend, the Browns played in front of around 12,000 people in their 24-22 victory against the Steelers to punch their ticket to the playoffs for the first time since 2002.
Kickoff is 8:15 on Sunday night at Heinz Field.