Steelers Week 1 Summary: Fields of Dreams

The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Atlanta Falcons 18-10 on Sunday afternoon. Pre-game was a rollercoaster with the quarterback decision. At the end of the day, the Steelers secured a victory, and I want to talk about my three biggest takeaways from Sunday.

Justin Fields started after the Steelers ruled out Russell Wilson two hours before kickoff. Let’s be honest, Justin Fields had a good game. He didn’t turn the ball over, won third-down conversions, and led the Steelers to six scoring drives. He also showed his mobility and ability to extend the play. The biggest question is do the Steelers start Wilson, who has been plagued by a calf injury, or do they ride with Justin Fields? 

The defense played great ball and it's clear that Mike Tomlin trusts his defense more than anything else. They held the Falcons to 244 total yards. And the Steelers took the ball away several times. New Steelers' Donte Jackson and DeShon Elliott both came away with interceptions. TJ Watt also had a fumble recovery. Watt also had a sack in the game along with Montravius Adams. Once again, TJ Watt looks like the Defensive Player of the Year after Week 1. As long as they stay healthy, this unit has the potential to be the best in football this year.

Lastly, the MVP of the game, Chris Boswell came through with six field goals. He had a long of 57 yards and hit 100% of all his field goals. He even had a punt when Cameron Johnston went down with an injury. Boswell showed why he is one of the best kickers in the NFL. 



The scoreboard didn’t reflect how the Steelers played. I think there were chances to score that were wiped away by penalties (George Pickens OPI) or poor communication (4th and Goal failure). But if the Steelers don’t turn the ball over, their defense is too good to lose. The Steelers need to keep controlling the clock, not turn the ball over, and run effectively.