The Pittsburgh Steelers kicked off their 2024 campaign with a resounding victory against the Atlanta Falcons, securing an 18-10 win on the road. While the final score might suggest a close contest, the Steelers dominated the game, showcasing a defensive masterclass that stifled the Falcons’ offensive firepower.
Steelers players celebrating a victory
Justin Fields: A Promising Debut
With Russell Wilson inactive due to injury, the spotlight fell on Justin Fields, making his first regular-season start for the Steelers. Fields, acquired in a trade during the offseason, demonstrated both the promise and inconsistency that have defined his young career. While the Steelers’ offense lacked the firepower to reach the endzone, Fields orchestrated six field goal drives, showcasing his ability to manage the game effectively.
Justin Fields throwing a pass
The Steelers’ coaching staff clearly limited Fields’ play-calling, favoring a conservative approach that emphasized simple reads and quick decisions. Fields responded well, completing 11 of his 13 pass attempts, showcasing flashes of brilliance on deep throws, particularly his connection with George Pickens. Fields’ rushing ability added another dimension to the Steelers’ offense, allowing him to convert crucial third-down situations and extend drives.
The Steelers Defense: An Unstoppable Force
The Steelers’ defense, a unit brimming with talent, lived up to its preseason hype, delivering a performance that sent a clear message to the rest of the NFL. The pass rush, led by the relentless TJ Watt, wreaked havoc on Kurt Cousins and the Falcons’ offensive line, consistently disrupting their rhythm and forcing hurried throws.
The secondary, bolstered by the addition of Dante Jackson and the continued excellence of Minkah Fitzpatrick, blanketed the Falcons’ receivers, limiting their impact. Rookie cornerback Joey Porter Jr. had a standout performance, effectively shutting down Drake London, the Falcons’ top receiving threat. The Steelers’ linebackers, a group that had faced questions heading into the season, stepped up, proving to be a cohesive and reliable unit.
Controversial Calls Cast a Shadow
While the Steelers’ victory was ultimately decisive, the officiating crew cast a shadow over the game, making several controversial calls that significantly impacted the flow of the game. The most egregious call came late in the second quarter when TJ Watt seemingly forced a fumble, recovered the ball, and ran it back for a touchdown. The play was nullified due to an offsides penalty on Watt, a call that left many questioning the officials’ judgment.
Another questionable call came on a deep pass from Fields to George Pickens that was ruled offensive pass interference. The replay showed minimal contact between Pickens and the Falcons defender, leaving Steelers fans and analysts perplexed.
Key Takeaways and Looking Ahead
Despite the controversial calls, the Steelers emerged victorious, demonstrating their resilience and ability to overcome adversity. Justin Fields, while not yet a finished product, showed enough potential to inspire confidence in his role as the Steelers’ backup quarterback. The Steelers’ defense, an elite unit that could be the best in the NFL, will be a force to be reckoned with throughout the season.
The Steelers now turn their attention to Week 2, where they will face the Denver Broncos on the road. With Russell Wilson expected to return to the starting lineup, the Steelers will look to build on their Week 1 success and establish themselves as contenders in the AFC. The Broncos, led by rookie quarterback Bo Nicks, will face a daunting challenge against the Steelers’ formidable defense.
