Takeaways From The Steelers Week 1 Win In New York

Pittsburgh got production from an unsung hero on Sunday. Ben Skowronek scored a 22-yard touchdown on the Steelers’ first offensive drive, breaking the curse. Before Sunday, Pittsburgh went 19 straight games without an opening drive touchdown. He later recovered a fumble on special teams that led to Calvin Austin’s touchdown. Skowronek had a day in Week 1. 

4. The Offensive Line Is A Problem

The Steelers offensive line was terrible in Week 1. Rodgers got sacked four times by his old team. That is unacceptable. It felt like Rodgers was under pressure all game. It’s only Week 1, leaving time to improve, but they have to be better. Pittsburgh’s season depends on it. If Rodgers goes down, the season goes with him. 

3. The Steelers Defense Has Work To Do

After an offseason of retooling, the Steelers’ defense is supposed to be great. They were far from that in Week 1. The Jets posted 394 total yards and tripled Pittsburgh’s rushing total. Jalen Ramsey saved the day, taking over on the last drive. They got out of Gotham with a win, but the defense needs to take a look in the mirror. Special teams got the only turnover of the game for the Steelers. 

2. Chris Boswell Is A Serial Killer

Mike Tomlin said it perfectly in his post-game press conference. Chris Boswell is a serial killer. In Week 1, he was perfect. Boswell hit all four of his extra point attempts and nailed two field goals, including the 60-yard bomb to win the game. As Jon Gruden said, Boswell is the deadliest weapon in Pittsburgh. Long live the Wizard of Boz.

1. Rodgers Isn’t Washed Yet

The Steelers’ new quarterback stuck it to the haters in Week 1. He completed 22 of his 30 passing attempts for 244 yards and four touchdowns. Rodgers led a beautiful game-winning drive to set up the Boswell 60-yarder. The season veteran became the first Pittsburgh quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger in 2020 to throw four touchdown passes in a game. Everybody said he was washed, but he didn’t show it in his first game in black and yellow. 

End Of My Pittsburgh Steelers Rant

It wasn’t pretty, but the Steelers got the win in Week 1. For once, the offense carried them to a victory. That’s an unusual occurrence in the Steel City. Once the defense finds its footing, they will be a scary football team. If the offensive line can keep him alive, Rodgers can have a great year in Pittsburgh.