Steelers Edge the Atlanta Falcons
They did not score a touchdown, lost their starting quarterback right before game time and the refs were horrible, but somehow there is a renewed feeling of excitement and hope as the Steelers up ended the Falcons and won their season opener 18-10 behind a masterful performance by Chris Boswell.
Justin Fields showcased his potential in a resilient performance, leading the Steelers to a victory after being called upon Sunday morning. Despite early struggles, Fields made key plays throughout the game, including two long passes to George Pickens and several crucial runs. While his performance might not guarantee him another start if Russell Wilson is healthy, it demonstrated that the Steelers could rely on him in the future. He is a dangerous weapon, and he will only get better. Fields finished 17-23 for 156 yards. He also rushed for 57 yards.
The Steelers’ running game was effective if not spectacular, with Najee Harris leading the charge. Harris grinded it out and played old fashion smash mouth Steelers football. Despite Jaylen Warren’s absence, Harris consistently gained yards and wore down the Falcons defense. He finished with a workman 20 carries for 70 yards. The offensive line which was playing without two starters did a good job protecting Fields and opening up the running game.
The receiving corps was highlighted by George Pickens’ impressive performance, as he capitalized on single-coverage opportunities to make big plays. Even after a monster play was called back on a ticky-tacky call. Despite eight different players catching passes, the rest of the receivers were quiet on the day.
Defensively, the Steelers absolutely dominated the Falcons’ offense after the first series. Cam Heyward, Larry Ogunjobi and Montravius Adams led the defensive line with strong performances. Bijan Robinson, one of the best young running backs in the game was held to 68 yards on the ground and the Falcons never got the running game going.
T.J. Watt continued to be a destructive force. Watt was absolutely ripped off on a strip sack that would have negated the Falcons only touchdown. Watt also recovered a fumble on a botched gadget play. The secondary played well, limiting the Falcons’ talented receivers, and Donte Jackson and DeShon Elliott grabbed two interceptions, the latter which all but sealed the game.
Chris Boswell had an exceptional game, tying a franchise-record of six field goals, three of which were absolute bombs of 50 plus, and even punted when Cameron Johnson, was crushed by the Falcons Special teams and looks to be done for the year. The play resulted in a penalty…for the Steelers, another in a series of AWFUL calls by the officials. The new kickoff rule never really played a role and of course the coverage and return units need to clean up the penalties.
By no means was it a perfect victory, but overall, the victory was a positive start to the season. The offense is a work in progress but for the first time in a long time, their looks like a solid plan. The defense will only get better.
BEER WE GO STEELERS, BEER WE GO!
My “GAME BEER” goes to: Little Bos is all “growns” up… Chris Boswell banging out SIX field goals, three of which were 50+ is just impressive. We have been very blessed to have the Bos and he saved the day yesterday, with a good punt as well. Also Considered: Scotty Miller, how hard do you think it is to come off the street and have to hold for an NFL kicker with the game pretty much on the line. T.J. Watt who is just an absolute monster. Cam Heyward with a big day.
Beer of the Game: Called an audible and went with old faithful Miller Lite, never disappoints and I did the aluminum bottles which were ice cold. KGB and Little Miss Tailgate went with Corona Light.
“Steel the Snacks”: Fried Chicken and Waffles a southern staple and Perogies a Pittsburgh staple. Eating the leftovers as I type this blog. PHENOMENAL and something they drew rave reviews on Social Media.
My Stat of the week: SIX Field goals for 18 points tying a Steelers record and three of those were for 57, 51 and 56. The 56 was with one second left. It was an outstanding performance.
My Thoughts on next week: This is the CLASSIC Steelers trap game that has plagued Mike Tomlin throughout his career. Houston pulled the upset yesterday with a big win over Jacksonville and the Steelers have the Ravens looming the following week. On paper this should be a big win, they need the offense to perform like it did yesterday and they will make quick work of the Texans.
Jersey of the Week: Went with Cam “Steelhead” Heyward #97 Away, he just signed a long-term deal with the team, and he will go down as one of the greatest players in Steelers history.