The Steelers found redemption in Las Vegas as they defeated the Raiders 23-18 in their third game of the season during Sunday Night Football on September 24th. Kenny Pickett, who had struggled in the previous two games, threw two touchdown passes, including a career-first multi-touchdown pass game. Pickett connected with Calvin Austin III and Pat Freiermuth for touchdowns and ended the game with 235 passing yards. Despite acknowledging the need for improvement, Pickett called the win a great step forward for the team.
In the early stages of the game, both teams were eager to gain the upper hand. The Raiders managed to force the Steelers to go three-and-out on their first two possessions and took a 7-0 lead with a 32-yard touchdown pass from Jimmy Garoppolo to Devante Adams. However, the Steelers quickly responded with a 72-yard touchdown pass from Pickett to Austin, tying the game at 7-7. This touchdown marked the longest of the season for the Steelers and Pickett's first completion of the game.
Photo Credit: Gaelen Morse/Getty Images
The Steelers defense made a crucial play in the second quarter when Levi Wallace intercepted Garoppolo, leading to a 43-yard field goal by Chris Boswell and a 10-7 lead. The Steelers added another field goal before halftime, taking a 13-7 lead. T.J. Watt played a significant role in the defensive effort, sacking Garoppolo twice and becoming the Steelers player with the most sacks in team history through three games.
The Steelers continued to dominate in the second half, with Pickett throwing a 13-yard touchdown pass to Freiermuth, extending their lead to 23-7. The Raiders attempted a comeback, scoring a touchdown and a two-point conversion, cutting the lead to 23-15. However, the Steelers defense held firm, stopping the Raiders on fourth down and forcing them to settle for a field goal twice.
With 12 seconds remaining in the game, Wallace intercepted Garoppolo for the second time, sealing the Steelers' victory. The Steelers defense showcased their ability to take the ball away and set up scoring opportunities for the offense. As they celebrate this win, the Steelers acknowledge there are areas for improvement but take pride in the steps they have taken as a team.
Commentaires