Beer We Go Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are officially 4-1 and sitting atop the AFC North after a dominant 23-9 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday at Acrisure Stadium, marking the 22nd consecutive regular season home victory over the Browns, a streak that must frustrate the Cleveland Browns.

This victory was the best of the season and highlighted execution on both sides of the ball, particularly against a vaunted Browns defense that entered the game giving up a league-low 247 yards per game. The Steelers absolutely torched that average, putting up 335 total yards.

The number one key to the offensive game plan was neutralizing Myles Garrett, and the offensive line, spearheaded by Broderick Jones, executed flawlessly. Garrett, who boasted pre-game about adding Aaron Rodgers to his “graveyard,” was kept off the stat sheet. Effective use of chip blocks and double teams kept him away from the Steelers’ 41-year-old quarterback, and when Jones was in a one-on-one, he pushed Garrett around and mauled him. Rodgers was not sacked, marking the second time in three games the offensive line has pitched a shutout keeping Rodgers off the ground.

Arthur Smith’s play-calling was sharp from the jump, highlighting the kind of week-to-week schematic evolution that defines a top offensive coordinator. On the very first play, he dialed up a shot out of a jumbo personnel package featuring tight end Darnell Washington and extra lineman Spencer Anderson. Washington snuck through the line for a huge 36-yard gain, immediately setting up the first of Chris Boswell’s three field goals.

Aaron Rodgers continues to prove he is exactly what this team needs. He followed up a high-scoring game with another incredibly efficient performance, going 21 for 30 for 235 yards with two touchdowns and, most importantly, zero interceptions. He now boasts a stellar 11 touchdowns against only three interceptions through the first five games. His veteran pocket presence was on full display as he evaded the rush and even found ways to gain positive yardage, including a clever flip to Jaylen Warren to avoid a sack and pick up a first down.

The line’s ability to control the line of scrimmage was not just for pass protection; it was the driving force behind a resurgent run game that recorded an even 100 yards. The coaching staff made a concerted effort to keep a rotation going, giving Jaylen Warren (returning from a knee injury) the lead role, while Kenneth Gainwell and Kaleb Johnson also chipped in. Warren led the team with 52 yards on a 4.7-yard average. Fresh legs wore down the Cleveland defense, with all three backs ripping off runs of 10 yards or more. Warren and Gainwell were also productive out of the backfield, combining for eight catches.

DK Metcalf is quickly becoming the Steelers’ big-play threat they envisioned. He took advantage of single coverage all afternoon, finishing with four catches for 95 yards. Three of those receptions went for 25-plus yards, including a touchdown early in the fourth quarter that stretched the lead to a comfortable 17 points. The tight end room also had a productive day, with Darnell Washington’s 36-yarder to start the game and a nifty 12-yard touchdown snag by Connor Heyward.

On defense, the plan was simple and executed to perfection: stop the run and force rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel to beat them. They held the Browns to a meager 65 rushing yards on 17 attempts. With the run game shut down, Gabriel was forced into a massive 52 drop-backs, continually having to check the ball down to underneath receivers.

The pass rush was relentless. Rookie defensive lineman Derrick Harmon continued his impressive debut season, picking up another sack and leading the D-line with four tackles. The outside linebacker rotation might be the best in football and proved to be too much for the Browns. Nick Herbig, who is quickly making a name for himself, added two sacks to lead the team with 4.5 on the season. Even with Alex Highsmith returning from his high-ankle sprain (and adding a half-sack), Herbig’s playing time remains a priority, and he continues to capitalize. T.J. Watt added a half-sack and forced several errant throws from Gabriel.

The full-strength secondary was outstanding, getting a major boost from the return of Joey Porter Jr. (five tackles, two pass breakups) and the continued strong play of the safety duo. Jalen Ramsey, just two weeks after a hamstring injury, tallied his first two-sack game of his career along with six tackles. DeShon Elliott led the entire defense with twelve tackles. The secondary held firm, not allowing the rookie quarterback to reach the end zone even on multiple late-game red zone drives. Jabril Peppers chipped in and had a fumble recovery negated by a penalty.

Special teams took a major step back. Chris Boswell was 3-for-4, with his only miss being after a slip on the sloppy Acrisure turf. However, punter Corliss Waitman shanked one punt for 34 yards, and a promising 47-yard return by new practice squad elevation Ke’Shawn Williams was nullified by a questionable blindside block penalty.

It was a solid and decisive victory, the Steelers now have a quick turnaround.

BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!

My “GAME BEER” goes to: Broderick Jones, who has been BBQ all season for his lackluster play, he took on the best defensive end in the NFL, and he put him in his pocket. Also Considered: Aaron Rodgers for his outstanding play, Nick Herbig who is becoming a huge asset.

Beer of the Game: KGB and I both went with Guinness.

“Steel the Snacks”: KGB made Cleveland Po’boys, which were Kielbasa, with BBQ sauce, French fries, and Cole Slaw on the bun. The snacks had a significant effect on the game as usual.

My stat of the week: I am superstitious, so I am not going with 22 in a row during the regular season. I am going with TWO, the number of tackles that Myles Garrett had in the game. He was shut out.

My thoughts on next week: As in this Thursday, the Steelers will go on the road and battle a Joe Flacco led Bengals squad. Flacco brings the Bengals back from being an “also ran” to a tough team. Why the Browns would trade him in the division is beyond me.

Jersey of the Week: Heath Miller, 83, Blackout Jersey. I love this jersey and it is one of my favorites, I was hoping that it would help start up the Tight End group, which might be the best in football, it did help them out, but we want to see more ‘Muth.

Steelers started strong and held off a mad ending to beat the Vikings in Dublin!

The Steelers held on for an ugly, but ultimately rewarding, 24-21 win over the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin, Ireland, advancing to 3-1. A few head-scratching coaching decisions nearly turned a comfortable romp into a near-disaster thanks to two highly questionable late-game decisions by Mike Tomlin.

While the defense deserves full credit for closing it out, this game should have been a three-score blowout—a testament to the Jekyll-and-Hyde nature of this team.

Mike Tomlin had a rough day. Two calls put a game in jeopardy that should have been over in the 3^rd quarter. First, with a chance to go up by 13 with just under four minutes left, he opted to keep the offense on the field for 4th-and-Goal from the 3-yard line.

That was a gutsy call, but if you’re trying to drop the hammer on them, you absolutely must put the ball in Aaron Rodgers’ hands and look for DK Metcalf or Darnell Washington. Instead, the team ran Kenneth Gainwell into a brick wall, resulting in a turnover on downs and a momentum swing. The second, and more egregious, decision came later: punting on 4th-and-1 from the Vikings’ 45-yard line with 1:08 left. Taking a penalty is inexcusable. A first down ends the game. To take a delay of game and punt—trusting a defense that had been on the field too long over a one-yard conversion—is ludicrous.

After three weeks of a non-existent run game, the Steelers finally showed a pulse on the ground, averaging 4.5 yards per carry. The answer, at least for one game, was big personnel. Arthur Smith used an extra offensive lineman, Spencer Anderson, and put Darnell Washington to work as a blocker, opening up some running lanes.

Kenneth Gainwell, filling in for an injured Jaylen Warren, had a breakout game with 19 carries for 99 yards and two touchdowns, adding 6 catches for 35 yards. His patience was excellent, and his success on first down was absolutely crucial, keeping the Vikings out of their exotic third-down blitz packages. Rookie Kaleb Johnson also saw his most extensive action and looked solid.

Aaron Rodgers was surgical early, staking the Steelers to a big lead. He finished an efficient 18-for-22 for 200 yards and a touchdown, continuing to be great in situational football. He’s not putting up monster numbers, but the team is 3-1 without playing their best football.

DK Metcalf was the primary beneficiary of a good early plan, logging 122 of his 126 yards by halftime, including a beautiful 80-yard catch-and-run touchdown off an Arthur Smith motion package. Unfortunately, the passing game dried up in the second half, and the tight ends remain an afterthought—Darnell Washington led the group with 20 yards, while Pat Freiermuth had zero catches. Even worse, Calvin Austin III left the game with a shoulder injury in the fourth quarter, putting more pressure on Roman Wilson to step up next time out.

The offensive line’s run blocking took a huge step forward, but the pass protection remains leaky. The interior line, specifically Isaac Seumalo, gave up a crucial sack just before halftime that forced the team to settle for a blocked field goal, leaving points on the field.

This was the first time this season the Steelers held an opponent under 100 rushing yards (70 yards on 20 carries), and the defensive line deserves praise. Keeanu Benton, a lightning rod for criticism in the first three weeks, had his best game by far with four tackles and 1.5 sacks. Cam Heyward continues to be an All-Pro presence, tipping a pass at the line that led to a T.J. Watt interception—the second time in as many weeks he’s done that.

The linebacking corps was phenomenal. Payton Wilson led the team with 13 tackles, none bigger than his shoestring tackle of Jordan Addison late in the fourth quarter that prevented a touchdown and forced the Vikings to bleed precious clock time. Patrick Queen was almost as good with 11 tackles and a sack. Nick Herbig continues to be a star in the making, adding 1.5 sacks and forcing an intentional grounding on the Vikings’ final drive, the guy simply capitalizes on his opportunities.

With all the injuries the patchwork secondary woes continue. While they closed the game out, the mental errors and communication breakdowns were a serious challenge. The miscommunication between Darius Slay Jr. and Chuck Clark that allowed Addison’s 81-yard catch-and-run nearly cost them the game. They need the bye week to get healthy and iron out these inexcusable mental lapses.

Special Teams had an up and down day. Gainwell and Trey Sermon averaged 25 yards per kickoff return, showing significant improvement on a previously struggling unit. Corliss Waitman averaged 48 yards per punt. Waitman’s final punt should have been pinned inside the 20 but went through the end zone. Pat Freiermuth completely whiffed on his block, leading to Chris Boswell’s first field goal attempt getting blocked. Boswell later drilled a clutch 33-yarder.

Given the teams history, the Steelers had to leave Ireland with a victory. They did

BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!

My “GAME BEER” goes to: Payton Wilson. His shoestring tackle was the biggest play of the game, saving a guaranteed touchdown late in the fourth and forcing the Vikings into a more time-consuming drive. That’s a game-winning play that often gets lost in the shuffle. Also Considered: Kenneth Gainwell (for stepping up huge in the run game), Nick Herbig (The sack machine, just give him the snaps!), and Cam Heyward (still putting on a Hall of Fame show).

Beer of the Game: We went with Guinness of course. KGB and I have been to Dublin a few times now and Guinness is always a stop on the tour. It was creamy, solid, and hearty—just like a good Steelers defensive stop.

“Steel the Snacks”: This would probably qualify as more Steel Snacks than Steel the Snacks. KGB made a classic Irish Breakfast with eggs, beans, Tomato and three kinds of sausage,

My stat of the week: 131: That’s the rushing yards for the Steelers in this game, a vast improvement over the first three weeks and a sign that the ground game may finally be found.

My thoughts on next week: The bye week is perfectly timed. This team needs to rest the wounded (Warren, Highsmith, Austin) and use the time to correct some of the issues that continue to plague the team. Then the Cleveland Browns, come to Pittsburgh, and after their Week 4 performance, this is a must-win to establish dominance in the AFC North.

Jersey of the Week: NO JERSEY again this week.

At times it looked like both the offense and defense were on to something big, and at other times they looked completely out of synch. In the end the Steelers did enough to edge out the New England Patriots 21-14.

It was a renaissance performance for two of the Steelers’ biggest stars. T.J. Watt snapped a six-game streak without a sack in a monster performance, getting two of the Steelers’ five sacks against the Patriots. He also had a forced fumble and a fumble recovery to go along with five tackles.

Cam Heyward was back to making the types of plays that have cemented him as an All-Pro. He had six tackles, a sack, a forced fumble, and a deflected pass that resulted in an interception. His biggest plays were timely. Just before halftime, with the Patriots poised to score, Heyward tipped Drake Maye’s pass, which landed in the hands of cornerback Brandin Echols. Then, after Aaron Rodgers threw a bad interception to open the second half, Heyward once again stopped the Patriots short of the end zone when he stripped Rhamondre Stevenson at the 1-yard line before he could cross the goal line for the score.

Nick Herbig, starting in place of the injured Alex Highsmith, produced perhaps the biggest sack of the game. His strip sack of Maye midway through the fourth quarter thwarted a potential go-ahead score by the Patriots and set up the Steelers’ game-winning drive. Cole Holcomb made his first “start” since November 2023, following a knee injury that had kept him off the field. In the game, he had six tackles and a forced fumble. He spelled Payton Wilson on the big run downs. Patrick Queen continues to be a tackling machine, leading the team with 10 tackles.

After missing the first two games with a knee sprain, rookie first-round pick Derrick Harmon made his highly anticipated NFL debut. He recorded two tackles, including his first career sack. At the nose tackle position, Daniel Ekuale and Keeanu Benton split time, with Ekuale registering three tackles. Benton looks miscast at the nose. Despite the unit’s noted improvement, they still struggled to stop the run, allowing the Patriots to gain 119 rushing yards. This marks the third consecutive game where the defense has surrendered over 100 yards on the ground.

Just three weeks after being cut by the Patriots, Jabrill Peppers made a huge impact getting his first start for the Steelers. He came up with a forced fumble and a fumble recovery on the same play early in the third quarter, a highlight in a day filled with big plays from the defensive backs.

Brandin Echols recorded his first interception with the Steelers, and Darius Slay Jr. played well in coverage and recovered a fumble. The team’s pass coverage though is still very leaky, especially on third downs. Drake Maye completed 76% of his passes for 268 yards and two touchdowns. While turnovers ultimately won the game for the defense, their struggles particularly over the middle on third down is head scratching. The potential return of Joey Porter Jr. and DeShon Elliott will helpfully improve the coverage units.

It was also an uneven performance for the offense, a veritable mixed bag of impressive and inconsistent moments. While the fast start and absolute glorious finish were impressive, what happened between those three drives was just bad football. Aaron Rodgers finished with only 16 completions. A remarkable 11 of those completions came on the three touchdown drives, leaving him with just five completions on the other seven drives.

Despite the inconsistency, Rodgers still gets it done when he has some time. He put together several clutch throws, particularly on the touchdowns to DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III. The game-winning throw to Austin, a perfect back-shoulder pass in the end zone, capped off a nine-play drive.

It also looks like he is getting on the same page with his targets. On that final drive, Rodgers was a flawless 4 for 4, a stark contrast to his previous four drives in the second half where he went 4 for 9 with an interception. The offense is clearly still a work in progress, but Rodgers delivered when it counted most.

Consistency, or the lack thereof, was the theme for the Steelers’ pass catchers. While they made their catches count, the overall production was mediocre.

The receivers were opportunistic, highlighted by DK Metcalf’s incredible job of getting both feet inbounds for a touchdown in the second quarter. The tight ends, which are supposed to be the focal point of the Arthur Smith system, offered next to nothing. Pat Freiermuth had only one catch for six yards and earned the Aaron Rodgers, angry hand gesture moment for failing to settle in a zone on a third down. Jonnu Smith managed three catches for 23 yards, but his performance was marred by a fumble that luckily went out of bounds. There are plenty of very good pass catchers, the lack of a passing game is something that needs to be fixed.

The running game is still non-existent. Jaylen Warren earned the bulk of the work, and he delivered. He finished with 81 total yards from scrimmage and came up with some crucial plays on the final drive. Warren contributed 29 of his yards to the fourth-quarter touchdown drive, including 14 of his team-high 47 rushing yards. Kenneth Gainwell chipped in to make a big play in the final drive with a 10-yard catch just before the game-winning touchdown pass to Calvin Austin. It was a game that was tailor made for the Steelers to take the air out of the ball and ground and pound, but the front is not getting any offensive push.

Corliss Waitman, proved Sunday he is a valuable weapon, he had a 55-yard punt and pinned the Patriots inside their 20-yard line three times. The kickoff coverage team showed significant improvement, holding the Patriots to an average of just 23.5 yards per return. This was a notable change from the first two games where the Jets and Seahawks consistently returned kicks past the 30-yard line. Chris Boswell was not called upon for a field goal.

The Steelers are 2-1 with a defense that has given up an average of 386 yards per game and no running game. They could easily be 3-0 or 0-3, that is how Jekyll and Hyde this team is.

The victory over the Patriots was a testament to their opportunistic, yet inconsistent, nature. While the defense showed a slight improvement by giving up “only” 369 total yards—fewer than in the first two games—their victory was a result of five turnovers. Defensive lapses are still very evident, as miscommunication allowed tight end Hunter Henry to score a wide-open touchdown on fourth down.

Offensively, the performance also is a rollercoaster. Coordinator Arthur Smith’s unit was opportunistic early and late but vanished for large stretches of the game. Finishing with a mere 203 total yards is a concerning number that won’t lead to many wins in the future. They must find a more consistent rhythm on both sides of the ball to achieve any kind of success.

Beer We Go Steelers, Beer We Go!

My “GAME BEER” goes to: After seriously considering it, it had to be Cam Heyward. He put in so many clutch plays, he basically saved the game. Also Considered: T.J. Watt, for having a huge day, Cole Holcomb coming in and establishing some law and order. Jaylen Warren for getting the tough yards.

Beer of the Game: I went with Brooklyn Octoberfest, Hearty and solid beer. I actually didn’t drink my whole allotment for the game.

“Steel the Snacks”: KGB went with New England Style Corn Chowder with biscuits. Solid soup and very hearty. We had it in the fourth quarter when the Steelers were driving.

My stat of the week: So many to choose from going with two touchdowns for a total of 510, the number of touchdowns Aaron Rodgers now has as he passed Brett Favre for fourth place on the all-time touchdown list.

My thoughts on next week: IRELAND, my heart is broken that we won’t be there, because of business commitments. This is a revenge game against the Vikings who beat the Steelers in London 12 years ago. This game would have meant a lot to Mr. Rooney, the former ambassador to Ireland. Look for a big week from the Steelers.

Jersey of the Week: NO Jersey this week, had a hectic pregame including the day after a wedding party and an event with the OSDIA.

What looked like a promising game at times, turned into a nightmare with defensive lapses, offensive mistakes and mental errors on special teams that cost the Steelers the home opener, losing to the Seattle Seahawks 31-17. It’s the first time the Steelers have allowed 30-plus points in back-to-back games in the Tomlin era, and first time since the disastrous beginning of the 1989 season, highlighting the dramatic need for improvement.

The defense, a unit Mike Tomlin predicted would be one of his best, has been challenged for the second week in a row and came up very short. After two games, it’s clear this group is still finding its footing, and battling injuries. He showed a degree of trust in the defense, punting on 4th-and-1 to force the Seahawks to drive the length of the field. Seattle of course scored, it was a decision that signaled he is still confident in the defense’s ability to respond to a challenge, despite very little evidence they are up for it.

The defensive line is facing a difficult stretch battling injury. While Mike Tomlin and Teryl Austin have publicly backed Keeanu Benton at nose tackle, he is still being pushed off the line of scrimmage and is better suited for an end position. After giving up 182 rushing yards last week, the defense allowed another 118 yards on the ground to the Seahawks. This marks the 11th time in the last 21 games an opponent has rushed for over 100 yards against the Steelers, these are stats that would have been unimaginable over the last few years.

Kenneth Walker III dominated, rushing for 105 yards on the day. Cam Heyward fought hard, making five tackles and a pass breakup that led to a Nick Herbig interception. But overall, the lack of a consistent pass rush, especially from the interior, left Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold with ample time to find his receivers.

Patrick Queen was active early in the run game, but a missed sack on Darnold proved costly, allowing the Seahawks to convert on a key third down. Payton Wilson led the team with nine tackles and a sack, but the linebackers struggled with pass coverage, particularly against play-action. Queen battled an injury all day and Wilson was pushed off the ball and sent to the sidelines at one point.

What has happened to T.J. Watt? He is in an uncharacteristic six-game stretch without a sack. While Herbig had a promising performance in relief of an injured Alex Highsmith, the Steelers need their top players—including Watt, Queen, and Highsmith—to consistently make game-changing plays.

In the secondary, Jalen Ramsey was targeted on some big plays but also showed his elite ability with six tackles and two pass breakups. He is not the problem. The secondary struggled to maintain tight coverage, especially against Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who had 103 receiving yards. A better pass rush would help, but the coverage must tighten up.

Last week special teams saved the day, this week they gave it back, by a mental error from Kaleb Johnson, which led to seven points for the Seahawks, putting the Steelers down by two scores. While this was a major moment in the game, the special teams unit overall has struggled in kick coverage. The issues were less apparent last week when Chris Boswell’s 60-yard kick stole the show, but this week, the Seahawks’ 22-yard punt return and an average of 27 yards on five kickoff returns were a cause for concern, providing the Seahawks with prime field position for much of the game. Corlis Waitman had a nice performance, but it was lost on the coverage issues.

Aaron Rodgers was unable to get much help from his teammates early. A perfect 40-yard pass to Pat Freiermuth was dropped, and DK Metcalf had two costly drops in the first half. Rodgers finished 18 for 33 with two interceptions, though one came on a deflection that was caused by Calvin Austin and the other in garbage time. The offensive line is porous at best and can be a major issue with a 40+ non-mobile quarterback at the helm.

Jaylen Warren was a bright spot, gaining 134 yards from scrimmage, including a highlight-reel 65-yard catch-and-run. He led the team in both rushing (48 yards) and receiving (86 yards). Despite his performance, there must be questions about his durability. The team’s lack of a physical back is painfully apparent, as the Steelers opted to pass and run with Gainwell.

DK Metcalf had a quiet day against his former team with only three catches for 30 yards. Calvin Austin III also had a quiet performance, with his one catch coming on a play that resulted in Rodgers’ first interception. The offensive line’s run-blocking improved slightly, but backs still averaged only 3.4 yards per carry. At this rate, the 41-year-old Rodgers is on pace to be sacked 60 times this season, which raises concerns about his longevity.

They have quite a few problems that they need to fix of this is going to be a lost season.

Beer We Go Steelers, Beer We Go!

My “GAME BEER” goes to: Have to go with Jaylen Warren who put together a solid effort. Also Considered, Cam Heyward who played well despite those around him not. Jalen Ramsey is exciting to watch despite a mixed performance.

Beer of the Game: Narragansett, Jaws Addition, the beer is one of my favorites and left over from a Jaws Party we had over Labor Day.

“Steel the Snacks”: This week it became “Steel Snacks”, I don’t really like Sushi and there was nothing on the Seattle snack slate that jumped out at me. KGB made a Sunseri style Atomic Roll, something we always get in Pittsburgh and bring to the tailgate. They were off the charts.

My stat of the week: Twenty-Two games, that was how long the Seahawks had gone before scoring an opening drive touchdown in a game. They put the Steelers on their heels early and shreaded the defense. It looked for a short time that they had righted the ship, but it was short lived. That was such an ominous stat that didn’t bode well for the rest of the day.

My thoughts on next week: The Steelers head to their personal house of horrors in New England. They will face a Jekyll and Hyde Patriots team that looked horrible week one and then demo jobbed the Dolphins yesterday. Gone is Bill Belichik and in is former Steeler and New England standout Mike Vrabel. This is a must win game before Ireland.

Jersey of the Week:  My vanity Jersey #50 Home Black, a gift for my fiftieth birthday from KGB.

It wasn’t the master blueprint the Steelers drew up, but they scraped, clawed, and ultimately did enough to pull out a hard-fought, thrilling 34-32 victory over the New York Jets. Chris Boswell was the hero, drilling the 60-yard winner after an earlier 56-yarder.

At times, this game looked frighteningly familiar— to the horrendous end of last season, capped off with the penultimate massacre in Baltimore that ended the once promising campaign. Even without their top offensive lineman, the Jets absolutely bullied the Steelers’ rebuilt front seven, churning out 182 yards on 39 carries. When the Jets threw, there was little to no pass rush and they ran up a big number on offense, 394 total yard.

The absence of first-round rookie Derrick Harmon hurt, but the veteran defensive front seven did little to slow Breece Hall, who consistently broke into the second level for long gains. Patrick Queen tied Alex Highsmith for the tackle lead, but he and Payton Wilson have to get more physical stopping the run.

Alex Highsmith was the lone standout, logging the team’s only sack, two more hurries, and eight tackles. T.J. Watt didn’t record a sack for the fifth straight game (dating back to last season), though he did manage two tackles for loss, including one where he absolutely buried Justin Fields.

Jalen Ramsey saved the day late, with his pass breakup on fourth down snuffing out the final Jets comeback attempt. But far too many big plays landed on the corners. Darius Slay Jr. allowed a 33-yard touchdown to Garrett Wilson. Six different Jets caught passes from Justin Fields, all for at least 12 yards. The Steelers poured serious cash and traded Minkah Fitzpatrick to build an “improved“ defensive backfield this offseason, yet they made Fields look like an elite passer.

If the defense was a disappointment the offense was an absolute surprise. It was “turn back the clock” day in Jersey. Aaron Rodgers was nearly flawless in his return, including a clutch, game-winning field goal drive where he went 4-for-5. He finished 22-of-30 for 244 yards, four touchdowns, and zero picks (a 136.7 QB rating). It makes you very optimistic about what he could do with actual pass protection or a running game. Not to mention a flagrant PI missed call on Calvin Austin that would have set the Steelers up.

The Steelers didn’t even try to establish the run, and the backs never found a flow. In his first start, Jaylen Warren had just 37 yards on 11 carries (plus a 5-yard TD catch). Getting only 59 yards from scrimmage from your starting back is not ideal and not the way the Steelers planned on drawing it up. Kenneth Gainwell was even less effective, with 19 yards on seven runs. Rookie Kaleb Johnson lost 2 yards on his only carry but drew a costly personal foul—which, frustratingly, was the longest gain of the day on a called running play. Warren earned his touchdown, but this entire group needs much better production.

For all the offseason complaints about the receiving corps’ quality and depth, it was encouraging to see DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, and Ben Skowronek all contribute with big plays. Skowronek, the Pittsburgh folk hero, had a 22-yard TD catch, Austin an 18-yard TD, and Metcalf delivered big plays all game. He is an absolute hoss out there. Jonnu Smith chipped in a short TD, too. Explosive plays from the receivers and tight ends fueled the comeback and kept the Steelers alive when they trailed by nine points, two times in the game.

Broderick Jones who the fan base has been clamoring for, struggled all game, unable to block Jets edge rusher Will McDonald. He allowed two sacks and gave up far too many pressures. It’ll be interesting to see how long the coaches give Jones to fix this before turning to a backup for more consistent blind-side protection. The line didn’t get a push in the run game, either. This unit has the most upside on the team but need to turn that into some sort of production.

Chris Boswell had the two big kicks, but the biggest special teams play was the turnover early in the fourth quarter. Gainwell stripped Jets returner Xavier Gipson, and Skowronek recovered the fumble. Two plays later, Austin’s touchdown gave the Steelers their first lead of the second half. That turnover led to a crucial 14-point swing in a 50-second span that turned the tide of the entire game.

Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith proved his earlier quote true: they didn’t bring Rodgers in to run the wishbone. Smith dialed up explosive plays in the passing game. Three of Rodgers’ four touchdowns were to wide-open receivers, a testament to good play-action calls and solid scheming. Smith still needs to figure out the running game and the line’s issues, but he was a key reason the Steelers won.

As for the defense? Mike Tomlin predicted his unit could do “historic” things. It is too early to give up on that idea, but they have got to show much more than they did against a limited Jets team. Tomlin has supreme confidence in his defense, but they need to start playing significantly better.

BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!

My “GAME BEER” goes to: Chris Boswell, yesterday’s game summed it up perfectly, who would you rather have had, Bos of Nick Folk who looks like my Grandfather and I am over 50. Bos absolutely banged that 60-yarder and he could have hit a 70-yarder, it had that much distance. Also Considered: Aaron Rodgers absolutely lit the scoreboard up. The Steelers moved the ball efficiently, Alex Highsmith established lay and order.

Beer of the Game: Westhampton Beach Pumpkin Ale, trying to be original this season. It might have been early for pumpkin beer, but it did the job.

“Steel the Snacks”: Being native NY, pizza was a thought but we eat that at least once or twice a week. So we went with Sabrett Hot Dogs and Knishes with hot mustard.  Not our most glamorous snack but it did the trick.

My stat of the week: 60-Yard Field Goal. It is impressive enough to hit a 60 yard field goal, it is more impressive when it is to take the league in a hostile environment on a rainy day, It was also Bos’s personal best and he absolutely clobbered the kick.

My thoughts on next week: This will be the home opener against a rebuilding Seattle team. The biggest question is what the defense will do against a more traditional pocket passer. The defense needs a statement game.

Jersey of the Week:  T.J. Watt #90 Home Black, wanted to switch it up this year, historically I go with a retired legend. Need a fresh look this season.

…for now

All right Beer We Go Family! I am over the disaster that was last season. Here is our thoughts on the NFL Draft.

Pittsburgh Steelers 2025 NFL Draft: Building Blocks for the Future

The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2025 NFL Draft with clear needs and a vision for solidifying their roster. After a disastrous end of the season and a fast Wild Card exit 2024, the focus was on adding physicality and depth, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, while also addressing key offensive positions. General Manager Omar Khan and Coach Mike Tomlin appear to have executed a draft that aligns with the team’s identity and aims for both immediate impact and long-term development.

One of the biggest stories of the draft was who WASN’T drafted. Despite several chances to get him and a glaring opening at Quarterback, the Steelers passed on Shedeur Sanders. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Steelers organization “did not reach a consensus on Sanders as a slam dunk pick.” While some in the organization may have been interested, there wasn’t a strong enough agreement to spend an earlier draft pick on him and avoid bringing in the sure media circus.

Instead, the Steelers followed their usual plan of attack and picked up players who fit the “Steelers Mode”.

Here’s the BWG take on the Steelers’ selections in the 2025 NFL Draft:

Round 1, Pick 21: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon

The Steelers kicked off their draft by bolstering their defensive line with the selection of Derrick Harmon from Oregon. This pick addresses a significant need, especially with Cameron Heyward entering his age-36 season.

• Analysis: Harmon is a disruptive interior pass rusher who fits the Steelers’ physical and aggressive defensive mold. He earned a high pass-rush grade in 2024 and is seen as a potential successor to Heyward. His ability to contribute immediately while learning from a veteran like Heyward is a significant plus.
• What he brings: Size (6’4″, 320 lbs), strength, and a knack for collapsing the pocket. He excels against true pass sets and can also contribute against the run.

Round 3, Pick 83: Kaleb Johnson, RB, Iowa

With Najee Harris departing in free agency, the Steelers looked to the running back position in the third round, selecting Kaleb Johnson from Iowa.

• Analysis: Johnson is a physical, early-down runner who provides a different dimension to the Steelers’ backfield compared to the shiftier Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell. He had impressive rushing numbers in 2024, showcasing his ability to gain yards after contact.
• What he brings: Size (6’1″, 224 lbs), power, and a downhill running style. He’s a bruiser who can wear down defenses and provides a strong complement to the existing running backs.

Round 4, Pick 123: Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State

Continuing to invest in their defense, the Steelers added edge rusher Jack Sawyer from Ohio State in the fourth round.

• Analysis: Adding Sawyer to a pass-rushing unit that already includes T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith provides valuable depth and potential for the future. Sawyer’s impressive pressure numbers in college highlight his ability to get after the quarterback.
• What he brings: Versatility, playmaking ability against both the run and pass, and a good frame (6’5″, 265 lbs). He has the potential to learn and develop behind established veterans.

Round 5, Pick 164: Yahya Black, DT, Iowa

The Steelers doubled down on the defensive line by selecting another Iowa Hawkeye, defensive tackle Yahya Black, in the fifth round.

• Analysis: Black provides further depth to the interior defensive line. While not primarily a pass rusher, he is known for his stoutness against the run and his ability to eat up double teams.
• What he brings: Run-stopping ability and the potential to develop as a rotational player on the defensive line.

Round 6, Pick 185: Will Howard, QB, Ohio State

Addressing the quarterback room, the Steelers selected Will Howard from Ohio State in the sixth round. With the uncertainty surrounding a potential Aaron Rodgers signing and the departure of other quarterbacks, adding a developmental prospect was a logical move.

• Analysis: Howard brings a combination of athleticism and a strong physique. He has experience as a multi-year starter in college and showcased his ability to perform in big games, leading Ohio State to a national title.
• What he brings: Size (6’4″, 236 lbs), athleticism, and experience. He’s a developmental quarterback who could potentially compete for a role down the line.

Round 7, Pick 226: Carson Bruener, LB, Washington

In the seventh round, the Steelers added linebacker Carson Bruener from Washington. He is the son of Steelers royalty Mark Bruener.

• Analysis: Bruener provides depth at the linebacker position and has experience as a productive college player, leading his team in tackles and interceptions in 2024.
• What he brings: Tackling ability and potential special teams contributions.

Round 7, Pick 229: Donte Kent, CB, Central Michigan

With their final pick, the Steelers selected cornerback Donte Kent from Central Michigan.

• Analysis: Kent adds depth to the cornerback room. As a team captain in college, he brings leadership qualities and experience as a starter.
• What he brings: Starting experience and potential depth in the secondary.

Overall Draft Analysis

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2025 draft appears to have focused on addressing key needs with an emphasis on physicality and defensive strength.

• Defense First: The selection of Derrick Harmon in the first round highlights the continued commitment to a strong defensive line. Adding Jack Sawyer and Yahya Black further reinforces this unit, providing both immediate depth and potential future starters.
• Running Back Reinforcement: Kaleb Johnson brings a power running element to the backfield, which could be crucial in complementing the skills of Warren and Gainwell.
• Quarterback Development: The addition of Will Howard provides a developmental quarterback prospect who could be groomed for the future.
• Depth and Special Teams: The late-round additions of Carson Bruener and Donte Kent offer potential depth at linebacker and cornerback, as well as possible contributions on special teams.

It wasn’t sexy and we didn’t get the franchise Quarterback, but the Steelers’ 2025 NFL Draft seems to have effectively addressed many needs on both sides of the ball. By prioritizing the defensive line early and adding a physical running back, they have reinforced their traditional strengths.

The selection of a developmental quarterback in the later rounds also shows an eye towards the future. Overall, this draft appears to have provided the Steelers with a solid foundation to build upon as they aim for a deeper playoff run.

The Undrafted Free Agents:

The Pittsburgh Steelers have historically found valuable contributors through the undrafted free agent (UDFA) market, and their 2025 class features several intriguing prospects who will be competing for a roster spot or a place on the practice squad. Here’s a detailed analysis of the Steelers’ 2025 UDFA signings:

1. Sebastian Castro, Safety, Iowa

• Analysis: Castro is a smart and versatile defensive back who played extensively for a strong Iowa defense. While his athletic testing numbers might have led to him going undrafted, his football IQ, coverage ability (especially in zone), and run support are highly regarded. He was a two-time All-Big Ten honoree.
• Potential Impact: Castro’s versatility to play in the slot, in the box, or as a deep safety gives him a real shot at competing for a roster spot, especially given the need for depth in the Steelers’ secondary. His intelligence and experience in a well-coached program could make him a quick study in the NFL. Some analysts believe he has the best chance among the UDFAs to make the 53-man roster.

2. J.J. Galbreath, Tight End, South Dakota

• Analysis: Galbreath was a productive pass-catcher at the FCS level, earning All-American honors. He’s considered an athletic move tight end with good receiving skills, hauling in a significant number of receptions and touchdowns in his college career.
• Potential Impact: With Arthur Smith now the offensive coordinator, tight end play could be emphasized. While Galbreath might be slightly undersized for a traditional in-line role, his athleticism and receiving ability could make him a valuable developmental player and a potential receiving threat from the position. He’ll need to prove his blocking ability to stick on the active roster.

3. Ben Sauls, Kicker, Pittsburgh

• Analysis: Sauls is a local product who had a successful career at the University of Pittsburgh, kicking in the same stadium as the Steelers. He was consistent and had a strong leg, earning All-American recognition.
• Potential Impact: While Chris Boswell is the established kicker for the Steelers, bringing in Sauls provides competition and a potential long-term option. Sauls’ familiarity with Acrisure Stadium is a definite plus. He could potentially follow a path similar to other kickers who have developed behind Boswell and found NFL jobs elsewhere.

4. Roc Taylor, Wide Receiver, Memphis

• Analysis: Taylor is a big-bodied receiver who was productive in his final two seasons at Memphis, showcasing his ability to make plays downfield. He averaged a healthy yards-per-reception in his senior year.
• Potential Impact: The Steelers have revamped their receiving corps, and Taylor’s size and potential as a downfield threat could make him an intriguing prospect. He’ll need to stand out in a crowded receiver room and potentially contribute on special teams to make the roster. His familiarity with former Memphis teammate Calvin Austin III could be beneficial.

5. DJ Thomas-Jones, Fullback, South Alabama

• Analysis: Thomas-Jones is a versatile player who played tight end at South Alabama but is expected to transition to fullback for the Steelers. He has good receiving skills for his position, with a knack for finding the end zone.
• Potential Impact: The Steelers have shown a willingness to utilize a fullback, and Thomas-Jones’ receiving ability gives him a different dimension at the position. If he can effectively make the transition and contribute on special teams, he has a decent shot at making the roster, especially considering the Steelers reportedly gave him the largest guarantee among their non-quarterback UDFAs.

6. Aiden Williams, Offensive Guard, Minnesota-Duluth

• Analysis: Williams comes from a smaller school but was a multi-year starter and an All-Conference selection. He’s considered a strong athlete, posting an impressive Relative Athletic Score.
• Potential Impact: Offensive line depth is always crucial, and Williams’ athleticism makes him an intriguing developmental prospect. Coming from a smaller program means he’ll face a significant jump in competition, but his athletic traits give him a chance to impress the coaching staff and potentially earn a practice squad role with the upside to develop further.

7. Ke’Shawn Williams, Wide Receiver, Indiana

• Analysis: Williams is a smaller, shiftier receiver who has accumulated a significant amount of all-purpose yards in his college career, including a productive season at Indiana in 2024.
• Potential Impact: While undersized, Williams is known for his toughness and route-running ability. He’ll be competing for a slot receiver role and will need to showcase his quickness and ability to make plays in tight spaces. Special teams contributions could be key to his chances of sticking around.

Overall Analysis of the Steelers’ UDFA Class:

This UDFA class appears to be a solid group with potential in various positions. Several players possess traits that could translate to the NFL level, even if they weren’t drafted. The emphasis seems to be on finding players with specific skills or high football IQ who can compete for roles and provide valuable depth.

• High Potential for Roster Spots: Sebastian Castro and DJ Thomas-Jones seem to have the clearest paths to potentially making the 53-man roster due to team needs and their respective skill sets.
• Developmental Prospects: J.J. Galbreath and Aiden Williams are intriguing athletes who could develop into contributors with more coaching and experience.
• Special Teams Value: Ben Sauls has a clear path to potentially sticking around if he performs well in camp, while other UDFAs will need to show special teams prowess to enhance their chances.
• Competitive Position Battles: The wide receiver group is crowded, meaning Roc Taylor and Ke’Shawn Williams will need to quickly demonstrate their unique abilities to stand out.

The Steelers’ rookie minicamp and training camp will be crucial for these undrafted free agents to showcase their talent and make a case for a spot on the team. The Steelers have a history of finding gems in this group, and it will be interesting to see if any of these players can become the next UDFA success story in Pittsburgh.

The Steelers freefall finally comes to an end… Losing to the Ravens in the wild card round!

MORE TO COME!

The greatest collapse in Steelers history continues, dropping their fourth game to the Bengals 19-17.

MORE TO COME

The Steelers were routed by the Chiefs.

The Steelers’ recent struggles have been exacerbated by untimely turnovers and a glaring inability to start games effectively. Russell Wilson, despite flashes of mobility, continues to make costly mistakes, including a crucial interception in the end zone against the Chiefs. This penchant for turnovers is a major concern for a team that cannot afford to lose the battle for possession against top-tier opponents.

The Steelers’ offensive woes are further compounded by their persistent inability to score on opening drives. This season-long trend demands a drastic shift in strategy. Jaylen Warren, with his explosive speed and proven effectiveness, should be the primary back moving forward. Limiting Najee Harris’s snaps to a supporting role is crucial for maximizing the offense’s potential.

While George Pickens’s return provided a spark, the overall passing game lacked consistency. The offensive line, a recurring issue, crumbled under consistent pressure from the Chiefs. Dan Moore Jr.’s struggles at left tackle have resurfaced, and the entire unit requires significant improvement.

The defense, while showing flashes of resilience, failed to contain Patrick Mahomes. The lack of consistent pressure on the quarterback proved to be a decisive factor. T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, the team’s premier pass rushers, have been noticeably less impactful in recent weeks.

With the pass rush disappearing, the secondary continues to be plagued by blown coverages, allowing opposing tight ends to exploit glaring weaknesses in the scheme. Minkah Fitzpatrick and the rest of the defensive backfield must improve their communication and execution to prevent these recurring lapses.

Special teams also contributed to the team’s woes. Cordarrelle Patterson’s diminishing speed and effectiveness as a kick returner needs to be reviewed. Corliss Waitman bounced back and had an effective performance.

Finally, head coach Mike Tomlin’s game-day decisions and the team’s slow starts are cause for serious concern. The constant shuffling of personnel on offense disrupts rhythm and hinders the team’s ability to establish a consistent identity. Defensively, the recurring communication breakdowns and missed assignments point to fundamental coaching issues.

The Steelers face a critical juncture in their season. Addressing these issues – turnovers, offensive line woes, defensive breakdowns, and slow starts – is paramount if they hope to contend in the playoffs.

BEER WE GO, STEELERS BEER WE GO.

My “GAME BEER” goes to: No one jumps out again. It was that bad of a game. Also Considered: ALSO NO ONE

Beer of the Game: I went with Budweiser, YUP straight Budweiser, once again in honor of Christmas. KGB was drinking wine and making the majority of the food.

“Steel the Snacks”: We did a Prime Rib, which is a KC staple, but truthfully this was more about Christmas than the Steelers.

My stat of the week: The Steelers have been outscored 30-3 in the first quarter during this three-game losing streak. This team is not really equipped to play from behind.

My thoughts on next week: The Steelers will finally have a few days to recover and hopefully have the full team back for the finale against the always dangerous Bengals.

Jersey of the Week:  NO Jersey, rocked the Steelers Holiday Sweater in honor of Christmas