Even though fan favorites like TJ Watt, Cam Heyward and Minkah Fitzpatrick didn’t suit up, that doesn’t mean there aren’t exciting takeaways from the Steelers first preseason game.
Pickett Looking Comfortable
The Steelers did say only one drive for Pickett and he made the most of it. Looking in rhythm early hitting Diontae Johnson three times, commanding the field and polishing off a very nice drive with a throwing touchdown to George Pickens over the middle. Pickett was not sacked and did look comfortable alluding pressure. Better footwork and a lot of zip on all his passes. It was very encouraging to watch.
PICKETT ➡️ PICKENS = 6️⃣
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) August 11, 2023
(via @NFL)
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Speed Kills
Once the starters came out, it was time to evaluate who else can contribute on the offensive side of the football. Speed was on display for the Steelers.
With some chunk runs and a speedy run off the edge for a touchdown in the 2nd quarter, Anthony MacFarland Jr. made his case for the third running back on the roster as the duo of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren are solidified.
Speaking of speed. It was fun to finally see what Calvin Austin III can bring to this team. As I have been highly anticipating his return to the field in the past, he looked comfortable taking jet sweeps and then excited us fans catching a bomb for a touchdown from Mason Rudolph. A nice throw by Rudolph while getting hit as I must provide credit where credit is due.
Kwon Alexander’s Impressive Showing
I spoke on it when they signed him, but it was fun to watch Kwon Alexander in his first action as a Steeler. Again, in only a small sample size, I liked watching his impact and his potential to fly around the field for the Steelers this year.
Other than his tackle for loss, he had a huge hit in the first half, and you know the NFL is back when they are calling awful unnecessary roughness penalties. I must say, he stood out most among the MLBs who got action in the first half.
You don’t wanna piss off Kwon Alexander this year. pic.twitter.com/vN2k5NbX6r
— STEELHERE (@_STEELHERE) August 12, 2023
Looking Forward
Even with an impressive preseason win for the Steelers, there is always one rule in football, no matter what level it is being played: the film never looks as bad as you think, but it also never looks as good as you think. I’m sure there will be some changes and tune ups that Mike Tomlin and staff come up with before next Saturday’s preseason game in Pittsburgh against the Bills.
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