Steelers Week 5 Takeaways
Image from: stillcurtain.com
After losing three straight games the Pittsburgh Steelers finally look like they are entering their stride. Sunday the Steelers hosted the 3-1 Denver Broncos. The Steelers dominated in all areas of the game during the first half. The Steelers struck points early on their opening drive quarterback Ben Roethlisberger hit wide receiver Diontae Johnson for a 50-yard touchdown. The Steelers controlled most of the game leading by 18 points late into the fourth quarter. Broncos quarterback Teddy Bridgewater and company tried to mount a comeback late into the fourth quarter scoring a touchdown making the score 24-19. After a 43-yard field goal by Steeler's kicker Chris Boswell extending the lead to 27-19. Teddy Bridgewater drives the ball downfield to try to send the game into overtime. With only eleven seconds left in the game, Teddy Bridgewater tries to hit receiver Courtland Sutton but was intercepted by corner James Pierre sealing the Steeler's first home victory of the season. My takeaways:
Offense: The Steelers offense played outstanding Sunday. Early in the game, it was obvious Steelers offensive coordinator Matt Canada was determined to run the ball. This was not an easy task noting that the Broncos defense was ranked 5th in the league. Running back Najee Harris rushed for over a hundred yards for the first time this year. Ben Roethlisberger's decision-making improved tremendously passing for 253 yards, 2 touchdowns, and no interceptions. The offensive line created space for Najee Harries and others to run through. The O Line only allowed one sack the entire game which is a well-needed improvement. Wide receivers Diontae Johnson and Chase Claypool must step up sense JuJu Smith-Schuster are out for the season.
Secondary: I have come to the realization we cannot expect our young secondary to make every play. Cornerback Cam Sutton did not play Sunday due to a groin injury sustained during practice. James Pierre got the start Sunday to replace Cam Sutton. James Pierre did give up a few plays noting the 39-yard Courtland Sutton touchdown catch. But he made up for it by making the game-winning interception. Since we have a young secondary I only expect them to make plays when they matter.
Defensive Line: The defensive line did not have a huge game in the sack department. The D line only managed to get one sack by defensive end Henry Mondeaux. Although they did bottle Teddy Bridgewater in the pocket, he would find a way to escape and pick up yards. The Steeler's defensive line is dealing with injuries tackles Carlos Davis, Tyson Alualu, and Stephon Tuitt missed Sunday's game.