The Steelers started slow and never really got it going against the Eagles, falling 27-13. The Steelers didn’t capitalize on opportunities and couldn’t get the offense or defense in synch.
It was Russell Wilson’s worst game as a Steeler and he struggled mightily against the Eagles, completing just 14 passes for 128 yards. Penalties consistently backed the Steelers into long-yardage situations, hindering any offensive rhythm. Wilson failed to make the big plays needed to ignite the offense.
The entire rushing attack was largely ineffective finishing with 17 rushed for 56 yards. Najee Harris’s struggled and had a very costly fumble on a crucial drive, that all but ended the game. Jaylen Warren and Cordarelle Patterson was also ineffective.
The absence of the mercurial George Pickens was hard to overcome and severely impacted the passing game. Calvin Austin III led receivers with 5 catches for 65 yards. Where is Mike Williams? He was acquired via trade and remains completely underutilized. Pat Freiermuth, the Steelers’ most reliable target, needs to be more heavily involved in the offense.
The offensive line also had their worst performance of the season and struggled mightily, allowing constant pressure on Wilson and failing to open holes for the running game. Dan Moore Jr. and Zach Frazier committed costly penalties that derailed drives. The Eagles’ dominant front seven exposed the line’s deficiencies.
Defensively, T.J. Watt was a bright spot before his injury, recording two sacks. Alex Highsmith also played well. However, the interior of the defensive line struggled to generate pressure on Jalen Hurts. Cam Heyward had five tackles but was the lone bright spot on the defensive line. Patrick Queen led the team in tackles but missed crucial tackles. Payton Wilson played well.
The secondary struggled to contain A.J. Brown, who exploited miscommunications within the defense. Joey Porter Jr. had a costly dropped interception.
Special teams had another week of mixed results. Mark Robinson recovered a fumble, but the offense failed to capitalize. Corliss Waitman’s struggled and was inconsistent.
Coach Mike Tomlin’s once again botched the clock at the end of the first half and cost the Steelers valuable scoring opportunities.
This was a microcosm of what the national media has been saying all-season. The loss highlighted the Steelers’ numerous challenges, including a struggling offense, a porous offensive line, with serious defensive lapses.
MORE TO COME
BEER WE GO, STEELERS BEER WE GO.
My “GAME BEER” goes to: NO ONE, that’s how bad this loss was. Also Considered: Mark Robinson forced a fumble, but that was about the only bright spot in the game.
Beer of the Game: I went with Modelo again, was going to go with Sam Winter Lager but could not find it anywhere. Looks like Cold Snap is out now. KGB went with wine.
“Steel the Snacks”: We went with a Philly Cheesesteak bar, easily our best snack of the year! KGB crushed it and even served Wiz and hot peppers.
My stat of the week: Steelers have NOT won in Philadelphia since 1965. I had a good feeling about this game, but it was not to be.
My thoughts on next week: The Steelers could wrap up the division with a big win v. the Ravens. They have had the hot hand and Baltimore will be looking to slow them down and avenge their last loss. Look for the typical Baltimore fist fight. Keep in mind, once again the schedule makers, have the Steelers on a short week AFTER playing the Ravens. Not a favor for either team.
Jersey of the Week: Merril Hoge, #33 Away White. One of the unsung fan favorites of the Steelers.