Tom Brady threw for two touchdowns in Pittsburgh

The defending champions controlled the first half and touchdowns from Deion Branch, David Givens and Rodney Harrison put them 24-3 ahead.

Pittsburgh did threaten a comeback with two touchdowns in the third quarter from Jerome Bettis and Hines Ward.

But the Patriots never really looked in trouble and touchdowns for Corey Dillon and a second for Branch sealed the win.

The AFC Championship triumph gives Patriots coach Bill Belichick a 9-1 play-off record, tying legend Vince Lombardi's mark.

It was a bad day for Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who had started the game with an 14-0 record but could not overcome a poor first half.

Roethlisberger was intercepted three times, one of which of which was returned for a touchdown by Harrison.

"I just made too many mistakes today. Made some bad reads," said Roethlisberger.

His opposing number Tom Brady had a better day and threw for two touchdowns, completing 14 of 21 attempts.

Brady, a two-time Super Bowl Most Valuable Player, will now lead his side against the Philadelphia Eagles in Jacksonville, Florida on 6 February.

"It's not about me and what I'm accomplishing," said Brady.