The Pittsburgh Steelers play in the AFC North, a division packed with intense rivalries and animosity. The Baltimore Ravens and Steelers are often the most competitive, with each team bringing its own brand of toughness to every matchup. The Cincinnati Bengals have established themselves as a formidable force in the division, while the Cleveland Browns have typically been at the bottom tier. Unfortunately for the Browns, that hasn’t changed in the 2024 season, as they continue to struggle in the highly competitive AFC North.
The popular show Hard Knocks has shifted its focus to cover the entire AFC North in the second half of the 2024 NFL season. The series has brought viewers up close to the heated dynamics between the teams, highlighting the fierce competition that defines the division. In the second episode, Steelers’ former star linebacker Joey Porter Sr. and his son, current Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr., shared a unique bonding moment while watching football together.
During their time on screen, Porter Sr. revealed a hilarious story that perfectly captured just how intense the AFC North rivalry really is. The tale shed light on the fierce, often over-the-top emotions that define every game between these teams, showing that the rivalry isn't just about football—it’s personal.
"It’s way more intensity than anybody can speak on," Porter said. "It is really, from the time like I don’t even eat in Cleveland, I never eat in Cincinnati and I never eat in Baltimore. Actually just thinking about it, you talk about the good crab in Baltimore. I ain't never had it."
Porter Sr. was one of the toughest players in the game, known for his vicious style of football. He wasn't afraid to let his opponents hear from him, backing up his trash talk with fierce play on the field.
A loudmouth and a relentless competitor, Porter Sr. struck fear into opposing offenses, always playing with a chip on his shoulder. His aggressive, hard-hitting style made him the perfect fit for the Steelers' tough defense, and he embodied everything it meant to be a Steeler.
In a full-circle moment, the Steelers had the chance to draft his son, Porter Jr., who has been an excellent addition to the team. In his rookie season, Porter Jr. quickly showed his potential, giving Steelers fans plenty of reasons to be excited about his future. Now in his second season, he’s continuing to impress, though he’s had some struggles with pass interference calls and penalties. Still, he’s putting together another strong campaign.
Steelers' Joey Porter Jr. Is Savage Like His Father
Watching the interactions between Porter Sr. and Porter Jr. on Hard Knocks has been a highlight. Mike Tomlin, who spent a lot of time with Porter Sr. during his time with the Steelers on their coaching staff, now gets to mentor his son. It’s been amazing to see this father-son dynamic play out on the field and in the stands. Porter Jr. is just as savage as his father, never shying away from big moments and embracing the intensity that runs through his bloodline.
At the start of episode two, Tomlin was seen speaking with Porter Jr., offering words of encouragement and boosting his confidence after a tough outing against the Bengals. The series has been a great opportunity for Steeler Nation to witness behind-the-scenes moments that were previously unseen.
With the Steelers currently dominating the division, it's exciting for fans to see their team featured on the big screen. As the series unfolds, Steelers fans are filled with hope that their team can continue their strong run and clinch the division title. That would be very cool for Steelers fans to see for many reasons. Being on Hard Knocks and winning it would be that much sweeter.
