New England Patriots WR JuJu Smith-Schuster Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Patriots WR JuJu Smith-Schuster makes incredible catch over Steelers defender on 'TNF'

While much of the football world turned up its collective nose at Week 14's "Thursday Night Football" contest, New England Patriots wideout JuJu Smith-Schuster rewarded those who tuned in early. 

On the Patriots' opening drive, Smith-Schuster came down with an incredible 37-yard reception from quarterback Bailey Zappe, catching it over Pittsburgh Steelers safety Damontae Kazee.     

Five plays later, Zappe connected with running back Ezekiel Elliott for an 11-yard touchdown. 

It was quite the start for the Patriots' offense, which failed to cross the Los Angeles Chargers' 30-yard line in an embarrassing 6-0 Week 13 loss. Furthermore, they're working short-handed as Smith-Schuster is one of only three active WRs suiting up for the Patriots on Thursday night, joining Jalen Reagor and Tyquan Thornton.

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