The Pittsburgh Steelers earned their second preseason win in as many games. In a showdown with the very talented Bills, the team’s win was driven by explosive plays on both offense and defense. Using a 14-point first quarter, the team held on to win 27-15. Similar to their win last week in Tampa Bay, the team’s supposed offensive starters played well in just a few drives. The defense forced four turnovers in a game where they had their hands full with Josh Allen and company. Pittsburgh will travel down to Atlanta for their final preseason game this coming Thursday.
Pittsburgh Steelers Use Explosivity, Big Plays To Earn Second Preseason Win
Offense Exciting, Even With Troubling Box Score
Starters Shine In Limited Play
Kenny Pickett and the starting offense didn’t need to do a whole lot Saturday night. They only played two drives, but scored a touchdown in each and were done just five minutes into the game. On the first drive, Najee Harris, George Pickens, and Allen Robinson all had touches to get some work in. On just the sixth play of the opening drive, Jaylen Warren (current RB2) took a handoff 62 yards to the house for a touchdown. After a quick defensive stop, the Bills were forced to punt; Calvin Austin returned that punt for over 50 yards back to the Buffalo 25. On the first play of the drive, Kenny Pickett found Pat Freiermuth deep over the middle for a 25-yard score.
The second-year quarterback Pickett only had to throw four passes in the two quick drives. He went 3/4 for 43 yards and that touchdown to Freiermuth. In a small sample size, Pickett finished with a passer rating of 149 (158.3 the highest). Overall, there wasn’t a whole lot to be excited about past the first quarter. The Pittsburgh Steelers put in the backups after that and it felt like a true preseason game, at least on offense, from then on.
Rest of Offense Concerning, But Is Nothing To Worry About
Removing Jaylen Warren’s long run, the team ran 32 times for a measly 59 yards (1.8 yards-per-carry). This cannot be the case in the regular season. It’s understandable that the guys getting touches aren’t going to be starters, and that the best linemen weren’t out there for long. But that just can’t happen, and the running game will have to be better to support Kenny Pickett.
Young Defense Forces Big Turnovers In Pittsburgh Steelers Preseason Victory
In the preseason win over the very talented Bills, the Pittsburgh Steelers defense forced four turnovers. They held the Bills scoreless for as long as Josh Allen was out there, and then some. Granted, Buffalo struggled with some penalties that likely won’t happen in a real game. But nevertheless, it’s still encouraging to see that shutout pitched against such a powerful team.
The Steelers notched three interceptions, with Joey Porter Jr., Chandon Sullivan, and Elijah Riley each getting one. Nick Herbig once again shined, notching a strip sack for Pittsburgh’s fourth turnover of the day. He is performing very well and has continually looked more and more like a true draft steal. Riley also played well, adding four tackles and two passes defended to add to his interception. Despite currently being depth guys, the Steelers defense looks to be in good hands with capable players like Herbig and Riley out on the field.
Main Photo: Charles LeClaire – USA Today Sports
