Death, Taxes and the Steelers winning in one score games. This victory marked their second consecutive win, maintaining pace in the AFC North race while leaning on their running game, rushing for 205 yards against the Packers.
The Fourth Quarter Decider
The fourth quarter was indeed the deciding quarter, where the Steelers’ defense had to make the final plays to secure their 6th victory. Two crucial interceptions in the final quarter helped the Steelers secure a win despite the Packers’ aggressive late game attempt to steal a win in Pittsburgh.
Pittsburgh Steelers rushing yards: 205
— taylornicole (@ay_taybay) November 12, 2023
Warren with 100
Najee with 82
(Both had a TD)
The Steelers are the first team to be out-gained in each of their first nine games and still have a winning record.
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) November 12, 2023
They improved to 6-3 with the win today. pic.twitter.com/TnIpkB8lz1
Interception One
The first interception occurred with just a little over three minutes remaining in the game. Jordan Love made a risky throw into the end zone, only to have it deflected and then intercepted by Keanu Neal. This defensive play was a turning point in the game, definitively halting the momentum the Packers’ had at that point in the game.
Interception Two
The second interception was equally, if not more, critical. The Packers, in a desperate attempt to score in the dying seconds of the game, saw their hopes dashed as Damontae Kazee intercepted Love’s throw at the Steelers’ 2-yard line.
The interception sealed the game for the Steelers, and was hilarious as a late hit on the sideline took a coach down and started some extra curricular activities after the whistle.
A Stellar Running Game
When they needed it most as the defense was not playing up to their standard, the Steelers also put up an impressive show in the running department. Led by the formidable duo of Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, the Steelers rushed for a season-best 205 yards, surpassing their previous best of 166 yards.
Jaylen Warren’s Heroics
Warren had a field day, leading the Steelers with a career-high 101 yards on 15 carries. His exceptional performance included a 16-yard touchdown run, which significantly contributed to the Steelers’ victory.
Najee Harris’ Critical Contribution
Harris was equally instrumental in the Steelers’ win. He added 82 yards on 16 attempts and scored a critical 4-yard TD run. His relentless efforts kept the Steelers’ scoreboard ticking and the Packers’ defense on their toes.
The Power of the Offensive Line
A significant factor contributing to the Steelers’ successful running game was their offensive line. First-round pick Broderick Jones, who featured at right tackle for the second game in a row has showed his value in every start he has made. We are excited to see him settle in his role on the offensive line.
Kenny Pickett’s Role
Kenny Pickett had a relatively quiet game, throwing for just 126 yards. However, his contribution cannot be understated. Despite the low passing yardage, his leadership and game management contributed to the Steelers’ victory. Most importantly, he didn’t turn the ball over.
The Role of the Steelers’ Defense
It really wasn’t the defenses best showing and the absence of Minkah Fitzpatrick and losing Cole Holcomb last week. The middle of the field was wide open and they gave up chunk plays. The Steelers gave up a touchdown on 3rd and 16. Plenty of things to not be happy about on that side of the ball.
To add insult to injury, the news is out that they lost Kwon Alexander, who tore his Achilles in Sunday’s game.
A Gritty Performance by Jordan Love
Despite the Packers’ loss, and the 2 INTs, Jordan Love put up a commendable performance. The stats didn’t show the whole story. He threw for 289 yards, was pushing the ball down the field with two touchdowns, proving to be a constant threat to the Steelers’ defense. However, his two fourth-quarter interceptions proved costly for the Packers in a one score game.
The Importance of the First Half
The Steelers had a strong start, scoring on their first three possessions to take a 17-7 lead. This early lead proved crucial as it gave them the confidence and survive the assault of the Packers’ onslaught in the second half.
The Packers’ Fightback
Despite being down by 10 points, the Packers fought back valiantly. They briefly took a 19-17 lead late in the third quarter, thanks to their persistent offensive efforts and a couple of successful field goal attempts.
The Steelers’ Final Push
The Steelers made a final push towards victory, with two field goals from Chris Boswell to regain the lead and seal the win. These successful attempts under pressure demonstrated the Steelers’ ability to deliver in clutch situations.
Two Upcoming AFC North Matchups
The Steelers’ victory sets them up nicely for their next AFC North game against the Cleveland Browns in Cleveland and then returning home against the Cincinnati Bengals with their current form and fighting spirit, the Steelers will undoubtedly need to win at least one of these division games to maintain pace in the AFC North and AFC Wildcard races in the second half of the season. They are going to need more of that resilience and determination they displayed on Sunday against rivalry games on the horizon.
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