You could feel the excitement in Market Square on Friday afternoon, when fans decked out in their black and gold gathered to show their support at the Steelers Pep Rally.

"It's a beautiful day and it's great to see the fans come out here at lunch time today to help get the weekend started," said Steelers President Art Rooney II. "There is a great buzz about the opening of the season. It will be a fun weekend for everybody."

Fans came from near and far, decked out in everything from the 'Steelers Nation Pope' to a full on Troy Polamalu uniform to get ready for Sunday's home opener against the Cleveland Browns at Heinz Field.  

"I dress this way every Steelers game," said Marlene Campen, of Plum, who had on a Polamalu jersey, uniform pants, helmet (okay, a chip bowl) and wig. "I am hoping the Steelers are going to go all of the way. I can't wait, the Steelers are finally on."

Former Steelers Tunch Ilkin and Craig Wolfley hosted the festivities after broadcasting their 'In the Locker Room' show live from Market Square. Also on hand to address the crowd were Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto and Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald.

"It's an exciting time," said Rooney. "There is a little more buzz about the Browns. It feels a little bit more like a Browns-Steelers rivalry so that adds to it. Opening day is always special, but with the Browns coming in this year, I think everybody is excited. I know our players and coaches are excited to get going. Hopefully it will be a great day at Heinz Field."

The Pittsburgh Steeline Drumline and Steely McBeam got the crowd fired up, including Shannan Conyers of Ardmore, Oklahoma who is attending her 15th straight Steelers' home opener on Sunday.

"It makes my heart pump so hard," said Conyers. "The excitement, the city is wonderful."

Steelers fans can also enjoy the excitement at Stage AE on Friday night, when the team hosts a "Back to Football" celebration. For more information, click on BACK TO FOOTBALL.