Week 18 of the 2025 NFL season brought a wild finish as the Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Baltimore Ravens in a winner-take-all game for the AFC North. Late in the game, Aaron Rodgers led a drive that ended with a touchdown to Calvin Austin III, giving Pittsburgh the lead. Chris Boswell, usually one of the league’s most reliable kickers, then missed the extra point, giving Baltimore a chance to win with a field goal. But when Ravens rookie Tyler Loop missed his kick as time ran out, the Steelers held on for a 26-24 win and the division title.
Chris Boswell is in the spotlight because his missed extra point, his first miss after 40 straight makes, almost cost Pittsburgh the game. But then the Ravens’ kicker missed too, flipping the outcome. This kind of drama is what makes rivalries exciting, and Boswell’s strong season makes the moment even more memorable. Fans are talking about how one small mistake became a big story, but it didn’t stop the Steelers from celebrating.
Chris Boswell’s Path to Steelers Stardom
Chris Boswell joined the Steelers in 2015 after spending time with a few other teams early in his career. He soon became a fan favorite thanks to his calm attitude and impressive accuracy. Fans started calling him “Boz” because he made important kicks when the team needed them most.
In 2017, he had a breakout season and made the Pro Bowl by hitting long field goals and staying perfect in important moments. Over time, Boswell has set several Steelers records for most field goals in a season and for long-distance kicks.
Even when he dealt with injuries or slumps, he always came back stronger. In 2025, he’s having one of his best years, making long kicks from 50 yards or more look easy.
He is now an important part of Steelers history, known for his game-winning kicks and steady performance.
Season 2025 Standouts
- Perfect on extra points until that one Week 18 miss
- Several successful kicks from over 50 yards
- Establishing new team accuracy records
- Contributing key points in many close games
Boz has also earned the trust of his coaches and teammates.
The Wild Week 18 Ending Involving Boswell
Crucial Sequence Breakdown
- Rodgers connects with Austin for a 26-yard touchdown pass.
- The Steelers take a 26-24 lead late in the game.
- Boswell’s extra point attempt sailed wide right.
- Ravens get the ball back with a chance to win.
The last few minutes were chaotic, with the lead changing several times. Lamar Jackson threw touchdown passes to Zay Flowers to keep Baltimore in the game.
Boswell’s miss surprised everyone because he had been so reliable all season. It gave the Ravens hope, since they only needed a field goal to take the lead.
But when rookie kicker Tyler Loop tried his field goal, he missed as well. The Steelers then ran onto the field to celebrate.
Why the Miss Shocked Fans
- Boswell had made 40 straight extra points coming in.
- His last miss was from seasons ago.
- The timing could have changed the whole game.
- Luckily for Pittsburgh, the Ravens missed, too.
In the end, it was just a small part of an unforgettable win.
Chris Boswell’s Reliability Throughout 2025
Boswell entered Week 18 as one of the best kickers in the NFL. He was making field goals at a high rate, especially from long distances.
He made several field goals from 50 yards or more, including a 57-yarder that helped keep games close. His strong leg and accuracy gave the Steelers confidence in difficult situations.
2025 Kicking Stats Highlights
- Over 90% success on field goals
- Multiple makes from 50+ yards.
- Nearly perfect on extra points before the finale
- Leading team in scoring contributions
His steady play has been a bright spot.
Chris Boswell’s Personal Side
Away from the field, Boswell keeps things pretty private. He’s a family man with a wife and kids, and he enjoys quiet time when not practicing.
He attended Rice University and still keeps in touch with his college community. Faith and helping others are important to him.
His teammates appreciate his calm attitude, which helps during high-pressure moments. He does not look for attention but earns respect by working hard.
Kicking Technique and Training Regimen
Boswell’s success is the result of years spent improving his skills. He works on his kicking technique and prepares mentally every day.
He pays attention to weather, field conditions, and the timing between the holder and snapper. These small details are important to him. Coaches say he is always the first to arrive at practice. Even at 34, he trains as hard as a rookie. This dedication helps explain his stamina and accuracy.
Elements of Boswell’s Success
- Daily repetition for perfect form
- Video review of every kick
- Mental exercises for focus
- Strength training to maintain power
These habits help him stay at the top of his game.
Heritage as One of the Steelers’ Greats
Boswell is now considered one of the greats in Steelers history, alongside legends like Gary Anderson and Jeff Reed. His records for accuracy and long kicks are impressive. He has made game-winning kicks that fans will always remember. Even with the Week 18 miss, his overall performance stands out.
Strong playoff performances have added to his career achievements. Another deep playoff run could make his legacy even stronger. At his best, Boz was essential to the team. His missed kick in Week 18 shows how unpredictable the NFL can be. He was reliable all year, and even though one miss almost changed everything, the Steelers still won.
The rivalry game showed why special teams matter. Boswell’s leg is often the difference. As Pittsburgh prepares for the postseason, fans are confident in their kicker. One miss won’t define him. Clutch history will.
