The Pittsburgh Steelers have taken sole possession of first place in the AFC North – for now – after their best offensive game of the season.
Pittsburgh took down the New York Jets with a 37-15 victory on "Sunday Night Football" to move to 5-2 on the season. Their 37 points and 409 total yards of offense were both season highs.
The win puts them just ahead of the Baltimore Ravens (4-2), who will have a chance to tie for the division lead again when they play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a “Monday Night Football” clash.
Quarterback Russell Wilson made his first start for the Steelers after dealing with a calf injury for the first six weeks of the season. Justin Fields had started every game for Pittsburgh before Sunday night.
Wilson was 16-of-29 on pass attempts for 264 passing yards and two touchdowns. He also scored a rushing touchdown on a QB sneak. Running back Najee Harris had 102 yards and a game-sealing touchdown late in the fourth quarter, and wide receiver George Pickens had 111 yards and a touchdown on five catches.
The Steelers’ win spoiled the Jets debut for star wide receiver Davante Adams, who finished the game with three catches on nine targets for 30 yards. New York quarterback Aaron Rodgers was 24-of-39 for 276 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in the loss.
Steelers Defense Stifles Jets Offense
The Steelers’ defense played a key role in the victory, limiting the Jets offense to just 15 points. Beanie Bishop Jr. had a standout performance for the Steelers, intercepting Rodgers twice. One of the interceptions came in the second quarter and set up the Steelers with a first-and-goal situation at the Jets’ 1-yard line. The other interception came in the third quarter and gave the Steelers the ball at their own 46-yard line with just under two minutes to play.
Jets Struggles on Offense and Defense
The Jets offense struggled to find a rhythm against the Steelers’ defense, especially in the second half. Aaron Rodgers was under pressure all night and was unable to get into a groove. He threw two interceptions and was sacked four times. The Jets also failed to capitalize on several opportunities, including a missed field goal attempt and a turnover on downs.
The Jets’ defense, while usually a strength, also had a difficult time against the Steelers. Wilson was able to find his receivers with ease, and the Jets had trouble stopping the Steelers’ run game.
Wilson’s Stellar Performance
Wilson was sensational in his Steelers debut, displaying the same electrifying playmaking ability that made him a star in Seattle. He looked comfortable in the Steelers’ offense and was able to distribute the ball effectively to his receivers. He also showed his mobility by rushing for a touchdown. Wilson completed 16 of 29 passes for 264 yards and two touchdowns, including a 21-yard touchdown pass to George Pickens in the second quarter.
Pickens Continues to Impress
Pickens, who has been a breakout star for the Steelers, continued his impressive play with a 111-yard performance. He caught five passes, including a 37-yard reception that helped set up the Steelers’ first touchdown. Pickens, despite bobbling a few passes, is becoming a crucial piece of the Steelers’ offense.
Jets Fall to 2-5
The loss drops the Jets to 2-5 on the season, and it will be an uphill battle to reach the playoffs. The Jets offense continues to struggle, and Rodgers has not been able to provide the spark they were hoping for. The Jets are a team in flux, and they will need to make some changes if they want to turn things around.
Looking Ahead
The Steelers will look to continue their winning ways next week when they host the New York Giants on Monday Night Football. The Jets, meanwhile, will be looking to get back on track when they travel to New England to face the Patriots next Sunday.
A Night to Remember
The Steelers’ 37-15 victory over the Jets was a memorable one, particularly for Wilson who started his Steelers career with a dominant performance. The Steelers' offense, led by Wilson and Pickens, looked unstoppable. While the Jets had a rough night, their performance will likely be a turning point for the team as they head into a critical stretch of the season.
The End of the Game?
The Jets are now 2-5, and the loss feels like a season-defining moment. The offense was stagnant, the defense was porous, and Aaron Rodgers’ performance was disappointing. The Jets’ season may be over, but they will be looking to make the most of the rest of the season.
