How Nick Herbig Kept Steelers Alive in Week 2

Herbig made two impact plays in Week 2. The first came early when he stripped the ball from Rhamondre Stevenson to end the Patriots’ opening drive. The play showed that Herbig isn’t simply being used as part of the EDGE rotation; the Steelers are also putting him in position to make impactful plays.

That is especially important considering the depth Pittsburgh has at EDGE. Herbig has to make the most of his opportunities, and he did exactly that against New England.

His second notable play came at another critical moment to keep the Steelers alive.

In the third quarter, the Patriots faced a third-and-one as they looked to extend their lead. However, Herbig blew up a screen pass for a loss, forcing New England to settle for a field-goal attempt. Herbig came in untouched and made sure the Patriots wouldn’t convert the third down or face a fourth-and-short situation.

Unfortunately, Herbig’s performance wasn’t enough as the Steelers’ offense laid an egg on Sunday.

Steelers Offense Let Herbig and Defense Down

This was a day to forget for the Steelers’ offense as the team transitions to Week 3. The offensive line, in particular, will face a tough film session this week after struggling throughout the afternoon.

The defense has allowed just 13 points in back-to-back weeks, and in the NFL, that should be enough to win games. Unfortunately, the Steelers’ offense has produced only 16 points through two weeks. The defense scored the other seven points in Week 1.

Things aren’t off to a great start offensively, and Pittsburgh doesn’t have time to spend much of the season searching for answers. With the Cincinnati Bengals coming to town, the Steelers will need to produce more on offense.

Expecting this defense to hold the Bengals’ offense to 13 points isn’t a great game plan. However, another performance like this from Herbig could go a long way toward helping Pittsburgh’s defense continue to produce.