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Pittsburgh Runs To Big Win

By R.B. FALLSTROM, The Associated Press

Published: December 21, 2007

ST. LOUIS - Najeh Davenport is a career backup running back with typical non-descript statistics. Except when he's playing the St. Louis Rams.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' top-rated defense was porous again in a 41-24 victory over the St. Louis Rams on Thursday night. But Davenport's three touchdowns and 123 yards rushing on 24 carries in relief of injured Willie Parker allowed them to break out of a late-season swoon and move one step closer to a playoff berth.

Three years ago, with Green Bay, Davenport ran for 178 yards against the Rams while filling in for Ahman Green.

Rams quarterback Marc Bulger threw three touchdown passes but was intercepted twice, and Ike Taylor's 51-yard return on an overthrown ball on fourth-and-10 with 3:46 left put the game out of reach.

St. Louis' Isaac Bruce caught a 12-yard touchdown pass and moved into third place on the career yards receiving list, ahead of James Lofton. Bruce knew he had a milestone, lugging the ball as he ran off the field to cheers. The only other highlight for the Rams (3-12) was retiring Marshall Faulk's No. 28 jersey at halftime of their home finale.

Parker, the NFL's leading rusher, broke a bone in his lower right leg in the first quarter.

Pittsburgh (10-5) moved a half-game ahead of Cleveland in the AFC North. The Steelers can clinch the division with a Cleveland loss Sunday at Cincinnati.

Summary, Page 15

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Pittsburgh Runs To Big Win