The Patriots got off to a fast start and then held on to beat the Steelers 21-18 in Pittsburgh.
The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a frustrating 21-18 loss to the New England Patriots on Thursday Night Football in Week 14, damaging their playoff hopes. A non-existent offense, a slow start and, allowing the Patriots to build an 11-point lead at halftime doomed the team. Despite a late rally in the fourth quarter, the Steelers were unable to overcome the deficit.
Offensive Struggles:
The Steelers’ offense continues to be a major concern. Quarterback Mitch Trubisky threw for 190 yards and a touchdown, but he also had an interception that the Patriots converted to seven points. The running game was ineffective and a non-factor, with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren combining for 40 yards. The offensive line struggled to protect Trubisky and created no running room.
Defensive Lapse in First Half:
The Steelers’ defense slept walk through the first half and were missing several key players. Alex Highsmith left with a concussion, and it looks like T.J. Watt played most of the game with a concussion. Mykal Walker was targeted all night and despite pulling down and interception, was no match for Hunter Henry in coverage.
The defense allowed Bailey Zappe, the Patriots’ rookie quarterback, to throw three touchdown passes and 240 yards. The defense tightened up in the second half, but it was too little too late.
The special teams had a good game after two tough weeks. Chris Boswell returned to form and drilled a 56-yarder, Miles Killebrew coming off his worst week as a Steeler blocked a punt that helped get the Steelers back into the game.
Despite all their struggles the Steelers put themselves in position to win the game, putting together a six play drive in waning moments of the fourth quarter, they were moving the ball, but then for whatever reason threw a low percentage pass to Diontae Johnson on 4th and 2. The Patriots all but ran out the clock after that.
The loss to the Patriots dropped the Steelers’ record to 7-6 and put their playoff hopes in jeopardy.
On Saturday December 2, the Steelers had their playoff fate in their own hands and were banged up but ready to make a move on the Ravens, one week later they are now on their last legs and it looks like they are in a free fall.
BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!
My “GAME BEER” goes to: NO ONE!!! Also Considered: The special teams Miles Killebrew redeemed himself after last week’s debacle. Elandon Roberts played well despite having a groin injury.
Beer of the Game: We tried to “Steel” the beer as well. Went with one of my favorites is Sam Adams Winter Lager. The beer was great as usual, even if the game was not.
“Steel the Snacks”: We went with Boston Turkey Sliders and a side of Boston baked beans with brown bread. That was the lone bright spot of the night.
My Stat of the week: Where do you want to start? None are good; Mike Tomlin is now 3-10 v. Bill Belichick on his career. Coming into the game, the Patriots scored 13 points in their previous three games. They had 21 in two quarters. After rushing for over 100 yards in five consecutive the Steelers finished with a paltry 82 yards.
The Steelers are the first team over .500 in the history of the NFL to lose to TWO teams that were 2-10. Just an embarrassing statistic.
My thoughts on next week: The Steelers need a statement win against a game but reeling Colts Team, a victory will help keep the Steelers in a playoff spot and possibly quiet down a very contemptuous fan base, which has completely lost faith in Coach Tomlin.
Jersey of the Week: Franco Harris #32, BWG Steelers last season shirt. Went with a shirt instead of a jersey to help Franco a year after his passing. Trying to spend the month Honoring Franco Harris!